Few regions are as diverse and fascinating as West Asia, the convergence point of Mediterranean, Persian and Arabic civilizations. Spanning Mediterranean forests, deserts, mountains, mangroves and coral reefs, this region has it all ecologically but is undergoing some profound environmental changes. Yet it is the political and social upheaval that is now grabbing global attention.
The wave of democracy sweeping across the Middle East and North Africa marks a new era for civil society in shaping a sustainable future. It is a unique opportunity for IUCN to engage with its Member organizations and partners to make the transition to sustainability that puts people’s human wellbeing and livelihoods at centre stage.
