IUCN COMMISIONS

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has a unique structure that includes expert
volunteer commissions, which are specialized groups of individuals and organizations focused on various
aspects of nature conservation. These commissions are a vital part of IUCN's work, and they serve as
knowledge and advisory bodies in their respective fields. The IUCN commissions work on specific
conservation issues, provide expertise, and offer recommendations to IUCN and its members.

Commission on Ecosystem Management (CEM):-

CEM is a network of more than 1,000 volunteer experts from around the world whose focus is on
ecosystem management related issues such as climate change adaptation, disaster risk reduction, Red List of
Ecosystems, fisheries and ecosystem restoration and services.The Commission on Ecosystem Management
(CEM) is a thematic commission of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). It focuses
on the conservation and sustainable management of ecosystems, with a particular emphasis on biodiversity
and ecosystem services. CEM plays a crucial role in providing guidance, promoting research, and
facilitating communication and collaboration among stakeholders involved in ecosystem management. Here
are some key notes about the Commission on Ecosystem Management:
1. IUCN Affiliation: The Commission on Ecosystem Management is one of the six thematic
commissions of the IUCN, which is the world's largest and most influential environmental
conservation organization.
2. Mandate: CEM's primary mandate is to promote the conservation and sustainable management of
ecosystems, including terrestrial, freshwater, and marine ecosystems. It seeks to integrate ecological,
social, and economic dimensions of ecosystem management.
3. Ecosystem Services: CEM places a significant emphasis on the recognition and valuation of
ecosystem services. Ecosystem services are the benefits that humans obtain from ecosystems, such as
clean water, pollination, and climate regulation. CEM works to ensure that these services are
considered in conservation and management efforts.
4. Interdisciplinary Approach: The Commission encourages an interdisciplinary approach to
ecosystem management. This means that it brings together experts and stakeholders from various
fields, including biology, ecology, social sciences, economics, and policy, to address complex
ecosystem challenges.
5. Research and Knowledge Sharing: CEM is involved in research activities related to ecosystem
management and biodiversity conservation. It also facilitates the sharing of knowledge and best
practices among its members and the broader conservation community.
6. Policy Guidance: CEM provides guidance on policy development and implementation related to
ecosystem management at various levels, from local to global. This includes recommendations on
protected areas, sustainable land use planning, and other relevant conservation policies.
7. Collaboration: The Commission collaborates with governments, NGOs, indigenous peoples and
local communities, and other stakeholders to promote ecosystem conservation and management. It
often works in partnership with other organizations and initiatives.
8. Working Groups: CEM operates through a series of working groups that focus on specific thematic
areas within ecosystem management. These working groups are composed of experts and
practitioners who collaborate to address specific challenges and develop recommendations.
9. Global Reach: CEM's work has a global reach, and it addresses a wide range of ecosystem types,
including forests, wetlands, coastal areas, and more.
10. Reports and Publications: CEM regularly publishes reports, guidelines, and publications that
contribute to the understanding and management of ecosystems. These resources are often used by
policymakers, researchers, and practitioners.
 Commission on Education and Communication (CEC)
CEC drives change for the co-creation of sustainable solutions through leading communication, learning and
knowledge management in IUCN and the wider conservation community. The Commission on Education
and Communication (CEC) is one of the six thematic commissions of the International Union for
Conservation of Nature (IUCN). CEC focuses on promoting effective communication and education
strategies to enhance public awareness and understanding of environmental issues and conservation efforts.
Here are some key notes about the Commission on Education and Communication (CEC):

1. IUCN Affiliation: CEC is a part of the IUCN, which is the world's largest and most influential
environmental conservation organization.
2. Mandate: CEC's primary mandate is to promote and advance environmental education and
communication to support the IUCN's mission of conserving nature and biodiversity. It seeks to
engage people and communities in conservation efforts.
3. Education and Awareness: CEC places a strong emphasis on environmental education and raising
awareness about conservation issues. It works to develop and share effective educational materials
and strategies.
4. Communication Strategies: The Commission focuses on developing and promoting effective
communication strategies to convey conservation messages to a wide range of audiences, including
the general public, policymakers, and the media.
5. Capacity Building: CEC supports capacity building in the field of environmental education and
communication. This includes providing training and resources to professionals and organizations
working in these areas.
6. Public Engagement: CEC encourages public engagement in conservation activities. It aims to
inspire and empower individuals and communities to take action for the environment.
7. Partnerships: The Commission collaborates with various organizations, including government
agencies, NGOs, educational institutions, and indigenous groups, to promote environmental
education and communication.
8. Global Reach: CEC's work has a global reach, and it addresses environmental issues in various
contexts, including terrestrial, freshwater, and marine ecosystems.
9. Publications: CEC produces publications, toolkits, and resources related to environmental education
and communication. These materials are often used by educators, communicators, and conservation
practitioners.
10. Working Groups: CEC operates through a series of working groups and networks that focus on
specific themes and issues within the field of education and communication. These groups bring
together experts and practitioners to share knowledge and best practices.
11. Innovative Approaches: CEC promotes innovative approaches to education and communication,
including the use of technology and social media to reach broader audiences.
12. Advocacy: CEC advocates for the integration of environmental education and communication into
conservation policies and initiatives at various levels, from local to global.
It's important to note that CEC's activities and priorities may evolve over time to address emerging
environmental challenges and communication technologies. For the most up-to-date information on the
Commission on Education and Communication (CEC) and its initiatives.
 Commission on Environmental, Economic and Social Policy (CEESP)

CEESP is an inter-disciplinary network of professionals whose mission is to act as a source of advice on

environmental, economic, social and cultural factors that affect natural resources and biological diversity.
The Commission on Environmental, Economic and Social Policy (CEESP) is one of the six thematic
commissions of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). CEESP focuses on the
integration of environmental, economic, and social considerations in conservation and sustainable
development. Here are some key notes about the Commission on Environmental, Economic and Social
Policy (CEESP):
1. IUCN Affiliation: CEESP is part of the IUCN, which is one of the world's leading conservation
organizations.
2. Mandate: CEESP's primary mandate is to promote the integration of environmental, economic, and
social dimensions in conservation and sustainable development policies and practices. It seeks to
address the complex and interconnected challenges facing nature and people.
3. Interdisciplinary Approach: CEESP emphasizes the importance of an interdisciplinary approach to
conservation and development. It recognizes that environmental issues cannot be effectively
addressed in isolation from economic and social factors.
4. Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities: CEESP places a strong emphasis on the rights and
contributions of indigenous peoples and local communities to conservation and sustainable
development. It works to ensure that their voices and knowledge are integrated into decision-making
processes.
5. Policy Development: CEESP is involved in policy development and advocacy at various levels,
from local to global. It seeks to influence policies and practices that affect the environment and
human well-being.
6. Natural Resource Management: The commission addresses issues related to the management of
natural resources, including forests, fisheries, and water resources. It promotes sustainable resource
management approaches that benefit both nature and society.
7. Economic Valuation of Ecosystems: CEESP explores and promotes economic valuation methods
for ecosystem services. This involves assessing the economic benefits that ecosystems provide to
people, such as clean water, pollination, and climate regulation.
8. Partnerships and Collaboration: CEESP collaborates with a wide range of organizations, including
governments, NGOs, academic institutions, and indigenous and local community groups, to advance
its mission.
9. Working Groups: CEESP operates through a series of working groups and task forces that focus on
specific thematic areas within the realm of environmental, economic, and social policy. These groups
bring together experts and practitioners to share knowledge and develop recommendations.
10. topics related to its mandate. These materials contribute to the knowledge base and inform
conservation and development strategies.
11. Gender and Inclusivity Publications and Research: CEESP produces reports, publications, and
research on: CEESP places importance on gender equity and inclusivity in conservation and
development efforts. It works to ensure that women and marginalized groups have a voice in
decision-making processes.
12. Climate Change: CEESP addresses the impacts of climate change and promotes strategies for
adaptation and mitigation that consider economic and social dimensions.
Please note that the specific activities and priorities of the Commission on Environmental, Economic and
Social Policy (CEESP) may evolve over time in response to changing environmental and societal challenges
 Species Survival Commission (SSC)

The SSC is a science-based network of more than 9,000 volunteer experts from almost every country of the
world, all working together towards achieving the vision of ‘a just world that values and conserves
nature through positive action to reduce the loss of diversity of life on earth.’ The Species Survival
Commission (SSC) is one of the six thematic commissions of the International Union for Conservation of
Nature (IUCN). SSC is primarily focused on species conservation and the preservation of biodiversity. Here
are some key notes about the Species Survival Commission:
1. IUCN Affiliation: The SSC is part of the IUCN, which is one of the world's foremost organizations
dedicated to the conservation of nature and biodiversity.
2. Mandate: The SSC's primary mandate is to promote the conservation of threatened and endangered
species, as well as their habitats. It works to ensure the survival of species through research, field
programs, and policy advocacy.
3. Expertise: The SSC comprises a network of experts and specialists from various fields, including
biology, ecology, and conservation. These experts collaborate to address conservation challenges and
provide guidance on species-related issues.
4. Red List of Threatened Species: One of SSC's most well-known initiatives is the IUCN Red List of
Threatened Species. This comprehensive database assesses the conservation status of thousands of
species worldwide, classifying them into categories such as "Critically Endangered," "Endangered,"
and "Vulnerable."
5. Specialist Groups: SSC operates through a system of specialist groups, each focusing on a specific
taxonomic group (e.g., primates, birds, plants) or conservation issue (e.g., reintroduction, invasive
species). These groups provide expertise and guidance for conservation efforts related to their
respective areas.
6. Habitat Conservation: In addition to species conservation, SSC also recognizes the importance of
protecting and restoring habitats. Healthy ecosystems are crucial for the survival of many species.
7. Reintroduction and Captive Breeding: SSC supports efforts to reintroduce species into their native
habitats and the management of captive breeding programs for endangered species. This is often
necessary to boost populations of critically endangered species.
8. Policy Advocacy: The commission plays an active role in advocating for policies and regulations
that protect threatened species and their habitats. It collaborates with governments, NGOs, and other
stakeholders to influence conservation policies.
9. Global Reach: SSC's work spans the globe, addressing conservation issues affecting species in
terrestrial, freshwater, and marine environments.
10. Conservation Plans and Strategies: SSC develops and promotes conservation action plans and
strategies for specific species or groups of species. These plans outline the steps needed to ensure the
survival of these organisms.
11. Education and Outreach: SSC engages in educational and outreach activities to raise public
awareness about the importance of species conservation. It seeks to inspire people to take action to
protect biodiversity.
12. Research and Monitoring: SSC supports scientific research and monitoring efforts related to
threatened species. This research informs conservation decisions and helps track the status of species
over time.
13. Climate Change and Conservation: SSC recognizes the impact of climate change on species and
their habitats and works to integrate climate change considerations into conservation strategies.
The Species Survival Commission's work is vital in the global effort to protect and conserve biodiversity, as
it focuses on individual species and their roles within ecosystems. The commission's activities and priorities
may evolve over time to address emerging threats and challenges to species survival.
 World Commission on Environmental Law (WCEL)

WCEL advances environmental law by developing new legal concepts and instruments, and by building
the capacity of societies to employ environmental law for conservation and sustainable development.The
World Commission on Environmental Law (WCEL) is a specialized commission of the International Union
for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). It focuses on matters related to environmental law, governance, and
policy. Here are some key notes about the World Commission on Environmental Law (WCEL):
1. IUCN Affiliation: WCEL is one of the commissions within the IUCN, which is one of the world's
largest and most influential environmental conservation organizations.
2. Mandate: WCEL's primary mandate is to promote the development, implementation, and effective
enforcement of environmental law and policy at the international, regional, and national levels.
3. Legal Expertise: The commission comprises legal experts, scholars, practitioners, and policymakers
with extensive experience in environmental law. These experts collaborate to address complex legal
and governance issues related to the environment.
4. Research and Analysis: WCEL conducts research and analysis on a wide range of environmental
legal issues, including biodiversity conservation, climate change, water resources, and sustainable
development.
5. Legal Frameworks: The commission works to develop and strengthen legal frameworks for
environmental protection and conservation. It provides guidance on the development of international
and national laws and regulations.
6. Policy Advocacy: WCEL engages in policy advocacy and provides legal expertise to governments,
intergovernmental organizations, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to support the
development and implementation of effective environmental policies.
7. Capacity Building: WCEL supports capacity building in the field of environmental law, helping to
train legal professionals, policymakers, and practitioners in the intricacies of environmental legal
issues.
8. Legal Tools and Resources: The commission produces legal tools, guidelines, and resources to
assist in the interpretation and implementation of environmental laws. These resources are often used
by legal professionals and decision-makers.
9. Environmental Justice: WCEL promotes the principles of environmental justice, including access
to information, public participation, and access to justice in environmental matters.
10. Transboundary Issues: WCEL addresses transboundary environmental issues, such as shared water
resources, biodiversity conservation in transboundary areas, and international agreements on
environmental protection.
11. Global Reach: WCEL's work has a global reach, and it addresses environmental legal issues in
various contexts, including terrestrial, freshwater, and marine ecosystems.
12. Collaboration: The commission collaborates with other IUCN commissions, as well as other
organizations, governments, and stakeholders involved in environmental law and governance.
13. Legal Research and Publications: WCEL conducts legal research and publishes reports, books, and
legal opinions on critical environmental legal issues. These publications contribute to the
understanding and development of environmental law.
14. Advisory Role: WCEL often serves as an advisory body, providing legal advice and
recommendations on complex environmental legal matters to governments and international
organizations.
15. Conferences and Events: The commission organizes conferences, workshops, and events to
facilitate dialogue and knowledge sharing among legal experts and stakeholders in the field of
environmental law.
WCEL's work is essential in advancing environmental protection and sustainability by providing the legal
expertise and frameworks necessary to address complex environmental challenges.
 World Commission on Protected Areas (WCPA)

With over 1,700 members spanning 140 countries, WCPA promotes the establishment and effective
management of a worldwide representative network of terrestrial and marine protected areas. The World
Commission on Protected Areas (WCPA) is a specialized commission of the International Union for
Conservation of Nature (IUCN). It focuses on the establishment and management of protected areas,
including national parks, nature reserves, and other conservation areas. Here are some key notes about the
World Commission on Protected Areas (WCPA):

1. IUCN Affiliation: WCPA is one of the commissions within the IUCN, which is one of the world's
largest and most influential environmental conservation organizations.
2. Mandate: WCPA's primary mandate is to promote the establishment, management, and governance
of protected areas as a critical tool for conserving biodiversity and ecosystem services.
3. Protected Area Categories: WCPA is responsible for developing and maintaining the IUCN's
system of protected area categories, which classifies protected areas based on their management
objectives and level of protection. These categories include Strict Nature Reserves, National Parks,
and Multiple Use Management Areas, among others.
4. Best Practices: The commission provides guidance on best practices for the planning, establishment,
and management of protected areas. This includes principles of conservation, sustainable use, and
equitable governance.
5. IUCN Green List of Protected and Conserved Areas: WCPA has developed the IUCN Green List
of Protected and Conserved Areas, which recognizes and promotes well-managed and effective
protected areas around the world. This initiative encourages protected areas to meet high standards of
conservation and governance.
6. Marine Protected Areas (MPAs): WCPA is involved in the conservation and management of
marine protected areas, which are critical for preserving ocean biodiversity and supporting
sustainable fisheries.
7. Indigenous and Local Community Involvement: The commission recognizes the importance of
involving indigenous peoples and local communities in the management of protected areas. It
supports efforts to respect their rights and traditional knowledge.
8. Transboundary Conservation: WCPA addresses transboundary conservation issues and promotes
the establishment of protected areas that span international borders, facilitating cooperation among
countries to protect shared natural resources.
9. Climate Change Resilience: WCPA advocates for the integration of climate change adaptation and
mitigation strategies into protected area management, as protected areas play a crucial role in climate
resilience and carbon sequestration.
10. Protected Area Governance: The commission provides guidance on governance structures,
policies, and legal frameworks for protected areas, aiming to improve their effectiveness and
sustainability.
11. Scientific Research: WCPA supports scientific research and data collection within protected areas
to inform conservation strategies and assess the health of ecosystems.
12. Capacity Building: WCPA offers training and capacity-building programs for park managers,
conservationists, and policymakers involved in protected area management.
13. Global Reach: WCPA's work extends globally, addressing protected area issues in diverse
ecosystems, including terrestrial, freshwater, and marine environments.
14. Collaboration: The commission collaborates with other IUCN commissions, governments, NGOs,
and indigenous and local community groups to advance protected area conservation efforts.
15. Conferences and Events: WCPA organizes conferences, workshops, and events to facilitate
knowledge sharing and collaboration among experts and stakeholders in the field of protected area
management.