Topic: 2025-Conserving Wetlands
Country: Russian Federation
Delegate Name: Amelia Wigant
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) is a major international organization focused on nature conservation and equitable natural resource use. Founded in 1948, the IUCN (m) is an organization, comprising governments, NGOs, scientists and specialists, that works together to address global environmental issues. As a member since 1991, Russia has worked with the IUCN to implement conservation goals.
Russia’s engagement with the IUCN has encompassed a range of dimensions, reflecting its commitment to biodiversity and sustainable development conservation. Ministry of Natural Resources and the Environment of the Russian Federation, in charge of environmental policies and legislation, is the voice of Russia in the IUCN.
2017 IUCN praised the Russian Republic on the centenary of its ‘zapovedniks’ (strict areas of protection) and recognized the Russians’ commitment to setup and have functioned protected areas. IUCN President, Mr. Zhang Xinsheng, underscored Russian commitment to the conservation of very valuable biodiversity and that protected areas are one of the best bets for the planet’s future.
Russia’s interaction with the IUCN is shaped by a fascinating tension between geopolitical aspirations and global bioconservation missions. Although Russia has achievements in biodiversity conservation, its recent activities have shown a gap in the matching with international conservation criteria. Sustaining cooperation with the IUCN and other organizations from the international community is crucial for Russia to meet its environmental obligations and actively support the global conservation process.
