IUCN Endorses Razan Al Mubarak For Second Term As President To Enhance Global Conservation Efforts

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has endorsed Razan Khalifa Al Mubarak for a second term as President. This endorsement came after approval from election officials and IUCN members during the 113th council meeting in Gland, Switzerland. The election is set to occur at the IUCN World Conservation Congress in Abu Dhabi from 9th to 15th October.

Razan Al Mubarak was first elected as IUCN President in 2021, marking her as the second woman to hold this position in the Union's 75-year history and the first from West Asia. During her initial term, she collaborated with IUCN members, the council, and the secretariat to establish a 20-year strategic vision for the organisation.

If re-elected, Al Mubarak aims to transform this strategic vision into concrete outcomes. Her focus will be on enhancing member engagement and ensuring biodiversity and nature-based solutions are integral to global decision-making processes. She emphasised the importance of these efforts amidst accelerating biodiversity loss.

Al Mubarak expressed her dedication by stating, "It is an honour to serve as President of the IUCN, especially at a time when biodiversity loss is accelerating at an unprecedented rate. The Union plays a critical role in bridging science, policy and people to safeguard nature." She also committed to leading with independence, credibility, transparency, and efficiency.

Beyond her role as IUCN President, Al Mubarak serves as Managing Director of several organisations including the Mohamed bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund and Emirates Nature–WWF. Her career has been marked by significant contributions both nationally and internationally in promoting nature-based solutions and fostering cross-sectoral collaboration for environmental conservation.

The IUCN stands as the oldest and largest global environmental network. It includes over 1,400 member organisations and more than 16,000 experts worldwide. Known for its scientific authority, it influences international policy while shaping conservation priorities and advocating for nature-based solutions globally.

During her first term, Al Mubarak contributed significantly to developing the 2026–2029 work programme. This programme aligns conservation priorities with global environmental, social, and economic objectives. Her leadership has been pivotal in setting a long-term strategic direction for the organisation.

With inputs from WAM