This strategy has been developed by the IUCN Council Taskforce on Antarctica and the Southern Ocean. It aims to address the threats and pressures on the region, while also identifying the particular role(s) that IUCN can appropriately play and which ones it can lead. It is not a strategy to address all threats at once, nor is it wise to try and do everything without prioritisation. This Strategy will thus outline a method for prioritising work that best aligns with the need, the opportunity, and IUCN’s niche and ability to add value to any campaign and to achieve its goals.
IUCN will continue working to protect biodiversity in Antarctica and the Southern Ocean, using its networks, expertise and role as an independent expert observer to the Antarctic treaties, to advance science-based diplomacy, precautionary decision-making and international cooperation over the nature reserve for peace and science.
