What is the Regional Conservation Forum?
Experts and IUCN Members convene worldwide in Regional Conservation Fora (RCFs) to address paramount issues in sustainable development and conservation within their respective regions. These gatherings are convened every four years and serve as vital platforms for dialogue and collaboration, setting the stage for the IUCN Congress.
During RCF meetings, participants delve into diverse themes, fostering discussions and consultations among regional Members. Their valuable insights contribute to shaping early drafts of the Programme, which undergoes formal approval at the IUCN Congress. This process includes devising mechanisms for Members' engagement in Programme implementation at global, regional, and local levels. Additionally, this year, sessions will focus on IUCN's 20-year strategic vision and the dissemination of knowledge encompassing the science, policy, and practice of conservation.
Members are also encouraged to craft motions for consideration and voting by Members during the Members' Assembly at the Congress, addressing pivotal matters aligned with IUCN's mission and global conservation objectives. Ahead of the IUCN Congress, Members will engage in discussions to refine these motions, with key and contentious topics tabled for debate and final decision during the Members' Assembly at the next IUCN Congress in Abu Dhabi 2025.
What is the RCF24ENCA?
RCF24ENCA stands for Regional Conservation Forum 2024 for Europe, North and Central Asia. Envisaged as an intersection between the two regions, the RCF24ENCA is a collaborative effort by the Government of Flanders, the city of Bruges, the IUCN Belgian Focal Point, local partners and IUCN. RCF24ENCA will take place in the city of Bruges, Belgium, a UNESCO World Heritage site, from 30 September to 3 October 2024.
Which two regions are participating in the RCF24ENCA?
RCF in Bruges is bringing IUCN constituents from two Statutory Regions – West Europe, and East Europe, North and Central Asia. It will be a major opportunity for them to present their work, discuss sustainable development issues and conservation priorities, advance the next IUCN quadrennial programme and help inform and steer IUCN’s strategic direction in the regions.
Who will be there?
RCF24ENCA will gather around 400 delegates, including IUCN Member organisations from the two regions, experts and scientists from IUCN Commissions, representatives of the private sector, partner organisations and institutions, donors and foundations, and Host City representatives.
The first-day programme (30 Sept) is open to all interested participants, and includes the official opening of the Forum, High-Level Dialogue, Thematic Sessions and Forum Fair. The following two days of the programme (1-2 Oct) will gather only IUCN Members and Commissions, to prepare for the IUCN Congress 2025 by discussing the Motions submission process, draft IUCN Programme and 20-year vision, and regional priorities.
How can I join /follow RCF24ENCA?
Please note the RCF24ENCA has reached full in-person capacity and is now closed for registration. You are welcome to join the sessions virtually - more information on online participation will be available soon.
To get updates on social media, please use the hashtag #RCF24ENCA.
Can you tell me about the RCF24ENCA venue?
Once you are in Belgium, the Bruges Meeting and Convention Centre (BMCC) can be easily reached on foot, by bicycle, public transport or car. It is located in the heart of the historic centre of Bruges, within walking distance of numerous hotels, historic attractions and world-famous museums. We invite you to take a virtual tour here.
What are the logistical plans for participants?
A logistics note will be available to help participants with travel arrangements. According to the IUCN Statutes and Regulations, every IUCN Member organisation in good standing can have one delegate sponsored for RCF attendance, covering travel and accommodation. Additional participants must be self-funded.
For more information on travel support and eligibility, please contact your Regional Membership Focal Point.
Attendees should check visa requirements and travel advisories for Belgium /EU well ahead of their trip.
Is there a registration fee for the Forum?
No, participation at RCF24ENCA is free of charge.
Where can I find the RCF programme?
The RCF24ENCA programme is available here.
How can media representatives get involved?
Media representatives are invited to attend the opening session of the RCF24ENCA. For media accreditation please contact:
IUCN Europe: Margaux Ysebaert [email protected]
IUCN Eastern Europe and Central Asia: Aleksandra Nikodinovic [email protected]
- How can IUCN Members or Commissions host side events, present posters or set up stands? The call for Parallel Thematic Sessions, stand holders and posters is now closed.
Return to the RCF24ENCA homepage.