The Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) has officially become a member of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), linking the region to over 1,400 governments, research institutions, and NGOs from more than 170 countries.
The announcement came during the IUCN Global Conference in Abu Dhabi, which began earlier this month and continues until mid-October. The event gathers global environmental experts, ministers, and representatives to discuss sustainable solutions for nature protection worldwide.
Dr. Hany El Shaer, IUCN Regional Director for West Asia, welcomed the KRG’s membership, calling it a vital step toward strengthening environmental protection efforts in Kurdistan, Iraq, and the broader Middle East. He emphasized that Kurdistan’s natural wealth and leadership role in conservation create new opportunities for regional collaboration on biodiversity and climate resilience.
Bayan Sami Abdul Rahman, the KRG’s High Representative for Foreign and Climate Affairs, described the membership as a “historic step” reflecting the government’s commitment to preserving biodiversity and promoting sustainable resource use. She reaffirmed the KRG’s dedication to protecting forests, rivers, and wildlife for future generations.
Kurdistan’s landscapes—such as Barzan, Qaradagh, and the Halgurd-Sakran National Park—host diverse ecosystems vital to Iraq’s environment. Joining the IUCN will enhance protection strategies for these areas and align them with international environmental standards.