NINA and partners explore how science can better inform global efforts on biodiversity and climate at this year’s IUCN World Conservation Congress in Abu Dhabi. Together they convene dialogue sessions on bridging research and policy, and advancing connectivity conservation across borders.
The IUCN World Conservation Congress 2025 is held in Abu Dhabi (UAE). Photo credit: IUCN
Once every four years, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) gathers the global conservation community for the World Conservation Congress (WCC) — a major arena where scientists, policymakers and practitioners shape the future of nature conservation. In 2025, the Congress will take place in Abu Dhabi, UAE, from 9–15 October, under the theme “Powering transformative conservation”. More than 10,000 participants from 140 countries are expected.
This year, the Norwegian Institute for Nature Research (NINA) will play an active role in the global dialogue, co-organizing two sessions with international partners, see details and links below. Both sessions aim to bridge cutting-edge research and global policy frameworks, advancing the implementation of the Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and the Paris Agreement.
“Bridging science and policy: European action for biodiversity and climate goals"
Date and time: 11 October 2025, 14:00–15:30 (GST)
Location: IUCN Europe, North and Central Asia (ENCA) Pavilion
How can scientific knowledge — from academic, Indigenous and traditional sources — better inform global biodiversity and climate policy? This session, co-hosted by three Horizon Europe projects — CO-OP4CBD, RESPIN and BioAgora — will showcase European initiatives that enhance capacities for implementing global biodiversity and climate commitments.
The session is supported by partners including the European Commission’s Knowledge Centre for Biodiversity, the IUCN Climate Crisis Commission, and leading European research institutions.
“Transboundary Conservation Around the World: Ecologically and Culturally Well-connected Landscapes and Seascapes”
Date and time: 10 October 2025, 16:00–17:30 (GST)
Location: Congress Forum Sessions
This session will highlight global initiatives for transboundary and connectivity conservation, exploring benefits, challenges and opportunities for maintaining ecological and cultural connections across political borders. It brings together experts and practitioners from around the world to advance collaboration and support the Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.
Partners include the IUCN World Commission on Protected Areas (WCPA), the Connectivity Conservation Specialist Group, the Center for Large Landscape Conservation, FUNDAECO, the Southern African Development Community (SADC), the European Green Belt Association, and the Salazar Center for North American Conservation.
Contact: Maja Vasilijević