Iran Shines at IUCN World Conservation Congress, Winning Two Prestigious Awards!
The recent awards presented by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) World Commission on Protected Areas (WCPA) highlight significant achievements in biodiversity conservation. At the World Conservation Congress, held in Abu Dhabi from October 11 to 15, 2025, Iran received two prestigious awards: the Reverse the Red and the International Ranger Awards. These recognitions underscore the country’s commitment to protecting its natural heritage and promoting sustainable practices.
Understanding the Reverse the Red Movement
The Reverse the Red initiative is a vital global movement aimed at fostering strategic cooperation and action to protect wild species and ecosystems. This program is designed to reverse the alarming trend of biodiversity loss. Key elements of the Reverse the Red initiative include:
- Collaboration: It brings together a diverse coalition of scientists, advocates, and partners.
- Data-Driven Approach: The initiative employs a science-based methodology for assessing and planning species conservation.
- Empowerment: It provides tools and expertise to help governments and local communities set and achieve biodiversity conservation targets.
- Celebration of Achievements: It recognizes and amplifies successes in species conservation.
This year, 26 countries were awarded medals for their exceptional development and implementation of evidence-based National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plans (NBSAPs). An expert panel, led by the IUCN Species Survival Commission, reviewed these plans from all parties involved in the Convention on Biological Diversity. The assessment criteria focused on:
- Transparency
- Scientific Rigor
- Stakeholder Engagement
- Alignment with Global Biodiversity Targets
The Iranian Ambassador to Abu Dhabi, Reza Ameri, proudly accepted the award on behalf of Iran, marking a significant achievement in the country’s biodiversity conservation efforts.
International Ranger Awards 2025
The WCPA also presented the International Ranger Awards to 13 individuals and ranger teams who have shown remarkable dedication to conservation. This year’s awards are a testament to the courage and perseverance of rangers worldwide. Key points about the International Ranger Awards include:
- Recognition: The awards celebrate the achievements of rangers in their efforts to protect natural resources.
- Public Awareness: The awards aim to raise awareness about the importance of ranger roles in conservation.
- Financial Support: Winners receive funds ranging from $5,000 to $25,000 to support the areas they protect.
Iran made history by becoming the first country in West Asia to receive this award. Notable recognitions included the Saidvaa National Park and the southern Parvar Protected Area Ranger Team from Semnan province, acknowledged for their resilience in overcoming social and ecological challenges to promote conservation. Azin Saeedi represented the rangers and accepted the award, highlighting the dedication of the team to protect Iran’s biodiversity.
The Role of the WCPA
The WCPA is recognized as the premier global network of expertise in protected and conserved areas. With over 3,200 members across 140 countries, the WCPA provides strategic advice to policymakers and works to enhance capacity and investment in the establishment and management of protected areas. Their efforts align with long-term biodiversity preservation goals, aiming to create a sustainable future for ecosystems worldwide.
Strategic Goals for Biodiversity Conservation in Iran
The Department of Environment (DOE) in Iran has undertaken a comprehensive revision plan to set strategic goals for the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity, targeting the Iranian calendar year 1430 (March 2051 – March 2052). In May, President Masoud Pezeshkian mandated the DOE to formulate a comprehensive biodiversity preservation strategy encompassing various environmental sectors. Key outcomes from meetings involving faculty members, environmental experts, and NGOs include:
- Promoting the integrity and resilience of biodiversity.
- Conserving biodiversity for sustainable use.
- Equitably sharing benefits derived from genetic resources.
- Raising public awareness about biodiversity issues.
- Enhancing specialized knowledge and modern technologies for effective biodiversity management.
- Strengthening financial resources and national mechanisms for implementing the biodiversity strategic plan.
The national biodiversity conservation program will undergo a comprehensive revision based on these strategic goals and will involve collaboration among relevant executive agencies, academic experts, and NGOs, aiming for DOE approval.
In conclusion, the recognition received by Iran at the World Conservation Congress signifies a pivotal moment in the country’s commitment to biodiversity conservation. Through initiatives like Reverse the Red and the International Ranger Awards, Iran is poised to make significant strides in protecting its natural heritage for future generations.
