Gland: The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has officially endorsed Razan Khalifa Al Mubarak for a second term as President. This decision comes after approval by election officials and members of the IUCN during its 113th council meeting held in Gland, Switzerland.
According to Emirates News Agency, Al Mubarak's nomination was proposed by IUCN members, with the election set to occur during the IUCN World Conservation Congress in Abu Dhabi from 9th to 15th October this year. Razan Al Mubarak was first elected President of the IUCN in 2021, making her the second woman in the Union's 75-year history to hold this position and the first President from West Asia.
During her initial term, Al Mubarak collaborated with IUCN members, the council, and the secretariat to establish the organisation's 20-year strategic vision. She also contributed to the development of the 2026-2029 work programme, focusing on initiatives that align conservation priorities with global environmental, social, and economic objectives.
If re-elected, Al Mubarak aims to turn this vision into actionable outcomes by enhancing member engagement and ensuring biodiversity and nature-based solutions remain central to global decision-making. She expressed her dedication to leading the Union with independence, credibility, transparency, and efficiency.
In addition to her role as IUCN President, Razan Al Mubarak is the Managing Director of the Mohamed bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund, the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi, and the Emirates Nature-WWF. She is also the UAE President's Representative to the High-Level Panel for Sustainable Ocean Economy. Al Mubarak has been instrumental both nationally and internationally in promoting nature-based solutions and fostering cross-sectoral collaboration in environmental conservation.
The IUCN is the world's oldest and largest global environmental network, consisting of over 1,400 member organisations and more than 16,000 experts. It is renowned for its scientific authority, influence on international policy, and leadership in shaping conservation priorities and promoting nature-based solutions worldwide.