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South America plays a crucial role in global conservation efforts, and the international spotlight is now firmly on this region. This Regional Forum not only sets the stage for the 2025 Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê¿ª½±½á¹ûÏÖ³¡Ö±²¥ World Conservation Congress in Abu Dhabi, but also acts as a precursor to COP16 of the Convention on Biological Diversity, which will be held in Cali from 21 October to 1 November 2024. 

In this context, a High-Level Panel was organised, bringing together notable figures, including Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê¿ª½±½á¹ûÏÖ³¡Ö±²¥'s Director General, Dr Grethel Aguilar, who stated that the best conservation model is one that includes people. She emphasised the importance of South America as a megadiverse region that maintains the planet's balance. Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê¿ª½±½á¹ûÏÖ³¡Ö±²¥, its Members, and experts are committed to an inclusive conservation model that values these natural assets while respecting the rights of communities and Indigenous peoples. 

Colombia's Minister of Environment and Sustainable Development, Susana Muhamad, encouraged reflection, urging participants to make the most of COP16 as a platform to integrate approaches that defend life and strengthen peace with nature: "If we recognised nature and life as something not external to us, what decisions would we make? It is urgent that we reclaim humanism and knowledge of ecosystems. This Forum is an important space to unite forces to defend life and nature," she said. 

The panel also included Gabriela Lichtenstein, Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê¿ª½±½á¹ûÏÖ³¡Ö±²¥'s Regional Vice President for Meso and South America; Maria Cecilia Wey de Brito, Chair of the National Committee of Brazil; and Gabriel Quijandría, Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê¿ª½±½á¹ûÏÖ³¡Ö±²¥â€™s Regional Director for South America, who acted as moderator. 

This inspiring panel explored the South American conservation model and highlighted the collaborative work being done by various actors in the regional context.

Additionally, the Forum held seminars and workshops where Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê¿ª½±½á¹ûÏÖ³¡Ö±²¥'s 20-year vision and the 2026-2029 Programme were analysed.