Fifth IUCN Survival Commission Meeting Commences in Abu Dhabi, Celebrating Conservation Achievements

ABU DHABI: The Fifth Leaders' Meeting of the International Union for the Conservation of Nature's Species Survival Commission began in Abu Dhabi, drawing 300 global leaders and experts in species conservation. The event, hosted by the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi, will run from October 25 to 28. During the opening ceremony, the agency was recognized for its efforts in changing the Scimitar-horned Oryx's status from 'Extinct in the Wild' to 'Endangered' on the IUCN Red List. According to Emirates News Agency, notable speakers included Razan Khalifah Al Mubarak, President of IUCN, Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary General of EAD, Dr. Grethel Aguilar, IUCN Director General, and Dr. Jon Paul Rodríguez, Chair of the SSC. The meeting coincides with the 2024 United Nations Biodiversity Conference in Colombia, highlighting global efforts in biodiversity conservation and the role of nature in addressing climate change. Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri emphasized the importance of collective action in species con servation, noting the presence of over 10,000 members and nearly 200 specialist groups within the SSC network. The establishment of 20 Centres for Species Survival was also highlighted as a positive development. Dr. Jon Paul Rodríguez added that the meeting's focus is on the interconnected crises of biodiversity loss, climate change, and human well-being, exploring sustainable strategies for the planet's future.