Europe

The IUCN European Regional Office focuses on biodiversity, nature conservation, EU policy and Nature-based Solutions. The office provides valuable input into ongoing policy debates in these areas, as well as a broad platform for discussions thanks to its varied membership and open dialogues.

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22%

of European animal species are threatened with extinction

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Natura 2000

is the largest network of protected areas in the world

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Nature-based solutions

can provide one-third of emission reductions needed by 2030

Shaping a sustainable future for Europe

Biodiversity is declining at unprecedented rates driven by unsustainable human activities which in turn impacts the vital services that nature provides us with. Brussels remains a central point to address these challenges through legislation and policies being developed and implemented by the EU Institutions, such as the European Green Deal. 

The IUCN European Office has built close relationships with the European Commission, the European Parliament, permanent representations of IUCN’s state members in Brussels as well as environmental NGOs, the private sector and other IUCN members. By bringing IUCN's expertise to the EU we are working to ensure we bring Europe's nature back.

Our work in Europe

1. Informing EU policy making

  • Promote IUCN’s mission and ensure that its knowledge and programmes are reflected in the decisions of the EU institutions
  • Provide a policy exchange platform for IUCN Members

2. Representing IUCN in Brussels

  • The European Regional Office formally represents IUCN to the EU institutions
  • Engage in partnerships with other Brussels-based organizations and represent IUCN at relevant events

3. Supporting resource mobilisation

  • Support IUCN’s Members and Secretariat in resource mobilisation
  • Identify EU funding opportunities and channel information to IUCN Secretariat and Members

4. Implementing Nature 2030 in Europe

  • Work with European Members and Commission experts to implement the IUCN Programme

The European Regional Office is engaged in a range of policy areas and projects. For instance, the well-known European Red List of Threatened Species helps to inform policy makers as well as the general public on the status of species in Europe. Our cooperation with local and regional authorities to promote nature-based solutions, highlights the pioneering role of IUCN in attracting new audiences to biodiversity conservation.

Photo: Wynand van Poortvliet

Meet our members and partners

The IUCN European Regional Office represents 352 Members, including 18 state members, 36 government agencies, 298 CSOs, Zoos, Academic Institutions, Foundations, Research Institutes, and Museums.

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Looking to the future: A new work plan for IUCN Europe

Today, to coincide with the World Conservation Congress in Marseille, the IUCN European office released its new work plan for the upcoming 4 years.