The 8th IUCN Asia Regional Conservation Forum (RCF Asia 2024), held in Bangkok, Thailand from September 3-5, 2024, brought together a diverse group of stakeholders committed to reimagining conservation in Asia under the theme "Reimagining Conservation in Asia: A Nature Positive Future." This forum, which occurs every four years, serves as the leading platform for knowledge-exchange and partnership-building among IUCN members, regional NGOs, academia, and other key players in biodiversity conservation.
Ngoc Anh Nguyen, Lead Coordinator of the AfA Policy Coalition (APC), and Koh Jie Long, Coordinator of the AfA Sanctuaries and Rescue Centers Coalition (SARCC) and AfA Macaque Coalition (MACC), actively participated in the event. The forum featured plenary sessions, technical discussions, side events, and numerous networking opportunities, all designed to foster interdisciplinary dialogue and collaboration.
Networking and Learning Opportunities
The forum provided a unique platform for attendees to engage with experts and organizations dedicated to biodiversity conservation, wildlife trafficking prevention, and sustainable development. Ngoc Anh and Koh took part in numerous sessions and side events, gaining insights into critical issues such as Nature-based Solutions (NbS), financing for conservation and innovative approaches to combat the illegal wildlife trade. They also explored mechanisms to align IUCN and Multilateral Environmental Agreement (MEA) resolutions and decisions, enhancing their understanding of the intersection between policy and practical implementation.
Key Sessions and Takeaways
During the forum, the Learning Zone offered participants hands-on training on tools like the Nature-based Solutions Self-Assessment Tool, which supports the design and improvement of conservation projects. Other sessions highlighted the importance of genetic diversity in responding to environmental changes and the role of citizen science in achieving positive conservation outcomes. The practical knowledge gained from these sessions will inform AfA’s future strategies, particularly in bridging animal welfare and conservation efforts together.
One of the standout aspects of the event was the range of discussions on future-oriented topics, such as the sustainable transformation of agri-food systems and the integration of biodiversity in urban planning. Attendees also delved into innovative financing mechanisms to support conservation efforts, emphasizing the importance of cross-sector collaboration and new partnerships for sustainability.
Positive Remarks and Recommendations
Ngoc Anh and Koh noted the exceptional opportunities for networking and learning provided by the conference. They appreciated the well-organized social activities and clear guidance for delegates, which facilitated meaningful exchanges among participants. The forum's focus on interdisciplinary methods for biodiversity conservation resonated with them, as it underscored the need for collaborative approaches to tackle complex environmental challenges.
Both coordinators also reaffirmed the value of attending such forums for professionals engaged in biodiversity conservation. The IUCN Asia Regional Conservation Forum not only offers insights into current and emerging issues but also fosters connections that can drive impactful conservation actions across the region.
For those in the conservation field, this conference is highly recommended as it serves as an invaluable platform to stay updated on the latest developments, to network with like-minded professionals, and to contribute to the regional and global conservation agenda. To learn more about IUCN and its work, please visit IUCN. To read more on this Forum, please visit RCF Asia.
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