IUCN

For the first time, the majority of the world’s trees have been listed on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species™, revealing that 38% are at risk of extinction.    Trees now account for over one quarter of species on the IUCN Red List, and the number of threatened trees is more than double the number of all threatened birds, mammals, reptiles and amphibians combined.    The latest IUCN Red List Update explains the threats they face and actions to help save them https://shorturl.at/JXsvd

Demonstrate innovative solutions to critical challenges by hosting a Forum session or art exhibit at the #IUCNCongress 2025.    The Forum is the largest knowledge marketplace for conservation and sustainable development science, practice and innovation.  The Forum call for proposals is now open and closes on 7 February.   Learn more https://bit.ly/3DkKb3i

New GEF program will scale up environmental solutions from youth, women, and Indigenous People. Supported by USD 10 million in GEF funding, The CSO Challenge Program will be led by IUCN. The program will provide extensive opportunities for partnership and peer-to-peer learning including through development of joint knowledge products, shared communities of practice, and awareness-raising events. The call for proposals is expected to be launched in the Spring of 2025 and the anticipated results include 12,000 ha of land and ecosystems under restoration, 159,000 ha of landscapes under improved practices, and 25,000 direct beneficiaries, of whom half are women. Learn more ➡️ https://shorturl.at/3ZLp7

During landmark legal proceedings legal experts with the IUCN recently argued at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) that States have binding legal obligations to protect the #climate system. In 2023, the UN General Assembly asked the ICJ – the UN’s highest judicial body, known as the World Court – to issue an Advisory Opinion on the legal responsibilities States have to protect the environment and address climate change, marking the first time the Court has dealt with the issue. Almost 100 States and 12 international organisations have taken part in the historic proceedings, which included written briefs and submissions over many months and oral arguments that took place over two weeks in December 2024 in The Hague. The ICJ is set to deliver its Advisory Opinion in 2025. Though not legally binding, it will carry significant weight, sending a powerful call for stronger accountability, enhanced cooperation, and a shared commitment to building a sustainable future. ➡️ https://lnkd.in/eq9uYuFm

IUCN’s arguments were presented on the final day of oral hearings in the landmark proceedings before the International Court of Justice regarding State obligations under international law to protect the climate system from greenhouse gas emissions, and the legal consequences they may face for causing significant harm to the climate system and other parts of the environment.

We’re excited to unveil the fourth issue of the IUCN Members' Magazine. Dive into a wealth of inspiring stories, the latest #conservation news, event highlights, essential publications, and more from the vibrant world of nature conservation. ✨ What’s Inside: ✔️ Exclusive Interview: Chief Raoni Metuktire shares his decades-long advocacy for the Amazon and its Indigenous peoples. ✔️Youth Empowerment: Explore the growing role of young leaders and their representation at Regional Conservation Fora. ✔️Rangers' Challenges: A deep dive into the obstacles faced by rangers around the globe. ✔️World Heritage Updates: Discover new and updated sites added to the World Heritage list.   Dive into this now! ➡️ https://lnkd.in/g7erFQVb

IUCN welcomes renewed global resolve to address #drought, desertification and land degradation as #UNCCDCOP16 closes. With #COP16riyadh putting the spotlight on land degradation and desertification, IUCN is calling for the momentum to be turned into effective, coordinated action around the world. Land degradation is the forgotten global crisis, with impacts that are making the lives of the world’s poorest and most vulnerable even more precarious. Read our full #COP16 statement here ➡️https://bit.ly/3ZSqTLn

Today, IUCN fought for the rights and protection of nature and people at the highest international level. The Union made its case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in a historic hearing on the legal duties of States to combat climate change. It was my honour to represent IUCN alongside Prof. Dr. Christina Voigt, and Prof. Francesco Sindico, as we stood together before the World Court as the voices for nature. We emphasised that States have binding legal obligations under international law—including, but not limited to the Paris Agreement—to reduce emissions, protect vulnerable communities, and safeguard the #planet. This landmark case is a turning point for global #climate governance. The ICJ’s advisory opinion, expected in 2025, will send a powerful message on accountability, cooperation, and the urgent need for deep, rapid, and sustained action to limit warming to 1.5°C. IUCN’s unique role as a bridge between governments, civil society, and science—supported by its 17,000 experts—brings critical weight to this moment. As we highlighted, this is about justice for the world’s most vulnerable: communities on the frontlines, #Indigenous peoples, and the natural world itself. In Court, we were reminded that this is also about ensuring that international law is inclusive and pluralistic – and we must consider legal systems such as indigenous customary laws – to ensure that we address the global climate crises in a manner that is equitable, effective and enforceable. The world is watching. The time for action—and accountability—is now.

NEWS: IUCN argues at World Court that States have a legal obligation to fight #ClimateChange. These obligations are found in the global climate change treaties, but also in other treaties, such as those on human rights, biodiversity and the law of the sea, as well as customary international law. States should be held accountable if they breach any of these obligations. IUCN’s participation in the case is notable because, as a union, it represents both State and non-State members, underscoring its unique position as a bridge between governments and civil society. It also draws upon the extensive legal and scientific knowledge from its more than 17,000 experts in 170 countries, especially those of the IUCN World Commission on Environmental Law, adding significant weight to its arguments to the Court. “This Advisory Opinion is pivotal in clarifying international law, shaping future climate action, and addressing the global climate crisis in a manner that is equitable, effective and enforceable,” said IUCN Director General Dr Grethel Aguilar during her intervention. Learn more ➡️ https://lnkd.in/eq9uYuFm International Court of Justice (ICJ)

Today IUCN will make history as it addresses the International Court of Justice in a landmark #ClimateChange case. IUCN will be represented by Dr Grethel Aguilar, IUCN Director General; Prof Prof. Dr. Christina Voigt, Chair of the IUCN World Commission on Environmental Law; and Prof Francesco Sindico, Co-chair of the Commission’s Climate Change Law Specialist Group. Check out our explainer ⬇️ to learn what the proceedings are about; the role IUCN will play and the possible outcomes. #climate #ClimateAction #ClimateJustice #ICJ #TheHague International Court of Justice (ICJ)