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“Belgium is a founding Member and State Member of ������ϲʿ�������ֳ�ֱ��, and there are now 22 Belgian Members. And that ‘we’ is a robust coalition, driven by the ������ϲʿ�������ֳ�ֱ�� Belgian Focal Point. Together with those partners we bring nature right into the heart of the city; that is why we wholeheartedly support the organisation of this Forum in Bruges,” said Goedele Van der Spiegel, Director General of the Flemish Agency for Nature and Forests.

“This Regional Conservation Forum provides a unique opportunity for conservation leaders to discuss the role of Europe, North and Central Asia in implementing the Global Biodiversity Framework and Paris Agreement on Climate Change,” said Her Excellency Razan Khalifa Al Mubarak, ������ϲʿ�������ֳ�ֱ�� President. “This is crucial ahead of the ������ϲʿ�������ֳ�ֱ�� World Conservation Congress 2025, which will shape ������ϲʿ�������ֳ�ֱ��’s programme for the four years leading towards 2030.”

“Our planet is facing a series of unprecedented challenges, threatening the natural systems and resources that allow us to survive and thrive. As we come together at ������ϲʿ�������ֳ�ֱ��’s Europe, North and Central Asia Regional Conservation Forum, this is the opportunity to join hands and build on ������ϲʿ�������ֳ�ֱ��’s 20 year strategic vision. It is only by protecting our planet's well-being that we can protect our own,” said Dr Grethel Aguilar, ������ϲʿ�������ֳ�ֱ�� Director General. “I know the Regional Conservation Forum will unite cultures, strengthen partnerships, and help us shape the future of conservation. Together, we will be the voice of nature in these crucial years for the planet."

"As the host city for this year's ������ϲʿ�������ֳ�ֱ�� Regional Conservation Forum, Bruges acknowledges the vital importance of sustainability. We are honoured to welcome this esteemed event to our city, particularly at the BMCC, our brand-new conference centre that proudly carries the Green Key Label. This recognition highlights our deep commitment to sustainable and responsible practices, values that are embedded across all our policies and that are aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals," said Dirk De fauw, Mayor of Bruges.

The event will address key regional conservation priorities under five critical themes: sustainable growth, low-impact food systems, the climate challenge, conservation outcomes and nature restoration. These themes will be discussed with particular consideration given to the role of civic spaces, AI and digital solutions, next generation leadership, innovative tools and standards, and finance for nature.

������ϲʿ�������ֳ�ֱ�� convenes Regional Conservation Fora every four years as a platform for ������ϲʿ�������ֳ�ֱ�� Members, Commissions and the Secretariat to prepare for the upcoming ������ϲʿ�������ֳ�ֱ�� World Conservation Congress. This RCF brings together ������ϲʿ�������ֳ�ֱ�� constituents from two Statutory Regions – West Europe, and East Europe, North and Central Asia. For the first time, it is sponsoring the participation of six young conservation leaders from across the region. In addition to capacity-building sessions and workshops, there will be a dedicated Youth Oasis space to encourage intergenerational dialogue and collaborations.

The RCF will adhere to specific sustainability guidelines to minimise its environmental impact, in alignment with Bruges’ dedication to sustainable practices. These guidelines ensure that the event supports both the environment and the local community.

The Regional Conservation Forum for Europe, North, and Central Asia 2024 is a collaborative effort, organised with the support of the Government of Flanders, the City of Bruges, the ������ϲʿ�������ֳ�ֱ�� Belgian Focal Point, and local partners.

Find out more about the ������ϲʿ�������ֳ�ֱ�� Europe, North and Central Asia Regional Conservation Forum .