Bruges will be the focal point for environmental discourse as it hosts the IUCN Regional Conservation Forum for Europe, North, and Central Asia from September 30 to October 3, 2024.
Taking place at the Bruges Meeting & Convention Centre, the forum aims to spotlight sustainable development and conservation priorities, bridging global and regional perspectives.
This gathering precedes the 2025 IUCN World Conservation Congress and presents a crucial platform for IUCN constituents from Western and Eastern Europe, North, and Central Asia to showcase their work.
Recognizing the pivotal role of cities and subnational governments in shaping a sustainable urban future, the event emphasizes their contribution to the broader mission of biodiversity protection.
The forum will facilitate dialogue through keynotes, panels, participatory sessions, exhibitions, excursions, and a public biodiversity space involving citizens and students.
Organizers aspire to set sustainability benchmarks, with the event serving as an inspiration for future Regional Conservation Forums.
Gemmeke De Jongh, International Association Expert for Flanders and Brussels, said: “Hosting IUCN in Bruges, Flanders in 2024 is the result of a joint effort by over 20 different stakeholders within the fields of biodiversity, nature and beyond. The Local Organising Committee is ambitious and committed to generate a true positive impact for IUCN and its members but also for the city of Bruges and its residents. Furthermore, the congress will be a momentum to showcase all the different projects in the region, e.g. the newly designated National Parks Flanders and Landscape Parks.“