"Environment is at the root of human security
throughout the world. Water and arable land
shortages increasingly cause tense and sometimes violent confrontations both among and within states. Lack of equity in sharing the costs and benefits of environmental resources causes conflict between individuals, communities and the sexes. This tension will undoubtedly increase as the global population expands, people migrate, environments degrade and climate change exacts its toll.

The gravity of such conflicts has prompted IUCN - the World Conservation Union to illuminate the underlying causes of tension and conflict, and to show how environmental degradation is pivotal. IUCN is promoting "Peace Parks" where transboundary protected areas enhance cooperation across borders,
and contribute to the peaceful resolution of conflict. The Great Lakes region in Africa, home of the mountain gorillas, provides a positive example of how a Peace Park can contribute both to security and conservation.

It is time to think beyond boundaries, beyond ethnic and religious grounds, and beyond nations in our global quest for a just world which values and conserves nature.

Security and environment will be a major focus at IUCN's World Parks Congress in Durban,
South Africa in September 2003. Here at this once in 10 year gathering the international community will have the opportunity to explore how best to address the challenges before us, and particularly the role of protected areas. The setting in Africa will orient us to consider how to address peoples' needs and reduce suffering so that we can gain greater community support
for protected areas and a true underpinning of conservation with sustainable development.

As Co-Patron for this vitally important world gathering, alongside my esteemed colleague and mentor, Nelson Mandela, I am delighted to give the Congress my fullest support and invite all to think beyond boundaries