Standing together for natureÂ
Over recent months, we have had the privilege of meeting people from hundreds of Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê¿ª½±½á¹ûÏÖ³¡Ö±²¥ Member organisations at the Regional Conservation Fora (RCF) that took place across the world.
These inspiring events provided opportunities for in-depth discussions on the future of conservation, as well as Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê¿ª½±½á¹ûÏÖ³¡Ö±²¥â€™s strategic direction for the next 20 years and our 2026-29 Programme of Work.
Each RCF addressed strategic topics for its region, including climate adaptation through Nature-based Solutions, human rights in conservation, and the importance of enabling active participation of youth, Indigenous peoples and local communities.
This year, Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê¿ª½±½á¹ûÏÖ³¡Ö±²¥ also launched our first-ever Youth Advisory Committee, one of several initiatives to empower young people and ensure meaningful engagement with young voices. This issue of Unite for Nature magazine includes a special focus on youth engagement at the nine Regional Conservation Fora, with a particular focus on the Africa event.
We are also very fortunate that Chief Raoni Metuktire, leader of the Kayapo people, took time to speak to our editor for this edition of the magazine. At Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê¿ª½±½á¹ûÏÖ³¡Ö±²¥, we know that the conservation of nature needs to go hand-in-hand with supporting Indigenous peoples’ rights, and we understand that Indigenous knowledge and practices are the cornerstone of effective nature conservation.
As entries open for the Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê¿ª½±½á¹ûÏÖ³¡Ö±²¥ WCPA International Ranger Awards, we also recognise the work of rangers around the world, including Indigenous peoples working hard to protect their ancestral lands and local wildlife. We all owe a debt to those working on the frontline of conservation efforts.Â
Our Union has never been as strong as it is today. As we prepare for the World Conservation Congress 2025 in Abu Dhabi, your insights and engagement are essential in further strengthening Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê¿ª½±½á¹ûÏÖ³¡Ö±²¥â€™s role in steering positive change.
Together, let’s continue to build a future where people and nature thrive side by side, guided by the collective wisdom and strength of our Union.
There’s so much we can do if we all unite for nature. Thank you.
Best wishes,
Razan Al Mubarak,
President of Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê¿ª½±½á¹ûÏÖ³¡Ö±²¥
Dr Grethel Aguilar
Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê¿ª½±½á¹ûÏÖ³¡Ö±²¥ Director General
