The IUCN World Conservation Congress 2025 is calling for Changemakers to showcase their initiatives on a global stage in the United Arab Emirates.

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) World Conservation Congress Changemakers program brings together young leaders who are actively developing and implementing solutions to pressing environmental challenges. This opportunity allows selected individuals to connect with global decision-makers, share their innovative projects, and contribute to shaping a nature-positive future. Participants will also have the opportunity to present their entrepreneurial solutions to key decision-makers from the private sector, government, and civil society, amplifying their impact on a global scale.

The IUCN World Conservation Congress 2025, set to take place in Abu Dhabi, will be a platform for bold discussions, collaborations, and transformative action. The event aims to foster cross-sector partnerships and accelerate progress in global conservation efforts. If you are an emerging leader working on climate solutions, biodiversity conservation, or sustainable development, apply to join an international movement creating lasting environmental change.

Key Details and Dates

• Application Deadline: April 27, 2025
• Funding Type: Fully funded
• Organizer: International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)
• Eligible Countries: Open to all
• Eligible Gender: Male/Female
• Target Group: Young innovators, conservation leaders, and environmental activists
• Focus Areas: Nature conservation, biodiversity, climate change, and sustainable development
• Program Language: English, French, and Spanish
• Host Country: United Arab Emirates (Abu Dhabi)

Benefits

Selected Changemakers will receive:

• Delegate access to the IUCN World Conservation Congress 2025
• A fully funded trip to Abu Dhabi, covering travel and accommodation
• Meals and other expenses during the event
• The opportunity to pitch innovative environmental action projects to global leaders
• Networking with conservation experts, policymakers, and business leaders

Congress Theme

The IUCN World Conservation Congress 2025 will focus on five critical themes to drive transformative conservation action:

1. Scaling Up Resilient Conservation Action: Expanding conservation efforts through science, traditional knowledge, and community empowerment.
2. Reducing Climate Overshoot Risks: Implementing emission reduction strategies and nature-based solutions to mitigate environmental damage.
3. Delivering on Equity: Ensuring inclusive and just conservation efforts that prioritize Indigenous Peoples, women, youth, and local communities.
4. Transitioning to Nature-Positive Economies and Societies: Shifting from extractive models to regenerative economic systems that restore ecosystems.
5. Disruptive Innovation and Leadership for Conservation: Harnessing technology, bold leadership, and new governance models to accelerate environmental progress

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Applicants’ age must be between 18 and 35 years old
• Have proven experience in developing and implementing innovative ecological projects
• The initiative must align with one or more IUCN Congress themes
• Strong preference goes to projects fostering equity, intergenerational collaboration, and rights-based approaches
• Applicants from the Global South, minority groups, Indigenous communities, and female leaders are strongly encouraged to apply.
• Applications accepted in English, French, or Spanish

How to Apply?

To apply for the IUCN World Conservation Congress Changemakers Program, follow these steps:

• Visit the official application portal using the link below.
• Complete the application form in English, French, or Spanish.
• Submit your application before April 27, 2025.
• Await the announcement of selected candidates by IUCN.

Apply Now

Further details and information are available on the official One Young World website.

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