Armenia Joins the International Union for Conservation of Nature

Armenia has officially become a State Member of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), taking a major step in its environmental and biodiversity protection efforts. The Ministry of Environment will serve as the national liaison to the IUCN Secretariat, representing Armenia within this global organization. The announcement was made at the IUCN World Conservation Congress held in Abu Dhabi.

This new membership shows Armenia’s growing commitment to protecting nature and biodiversity. “Through IUCN, Armenia will gain access to global expertise, innovative tools and international partnerships that will help us accelerate our conservation goals,” said H.E. Mr Hambardzum Matevosyan, Minister of Environment of Armenia. “This membership also supports our preparations for hosting COP17 of the Convention on Biological Diversity in 2026, a landmark moment for Armenia to showcase its role in advancing biodiversity and sustainability.”

Located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Armenia is home to a wide range of natural habitats — from mountain forests and alpine meadows to semi-deserts and freshwater systems. These areas support many rare and endangered species, such as the Critically Endangered Caucasian leopard, the endemic Bezoar goat, and the Sevan trout found only in Lake Sevan. Beyond their ecological value, these ecosystems provide crucial benefits to communities across the country, including clean water, fertile soil, and climate stability.

Over the past decade, Armenia has made important progress in environmental protection through new laws and national programs. The country has adopted the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan and updated its Red Book of Armenia, which lists endangered species. However, challenges remain. Armenia continues to work on improving its legal framework for biodiversity, developing a national biodiversity monitoring system, and finding sustainable financial resources to achieve its long-term environmental goals.

“We are honoured to welcome Armenia as a State Member of IUCN,” said Dr Grethel Aguilar, IUCN Director General. “This decision comes at a pivotal moment as Armenia works to expand its protected and conserved areas, restore forests, and align its legislation with international standards. Home to remarkable biodiversity and unique ecosystems at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Armenia plays a vital role in regional and global conservation efforts. IUCN stands ready to support these efforts through our science-based tools – from the Green List of Protected and Conserved Areas and the Global Standard for Nature-based Solutions to the Red Lists of Species and Ecosystems.

IUCN looks forward to walking alongside Armenia, and to provide support and expertise as we work together to turn ambitions into lasting results for people and nature.”

Armenia’s membership also aligns with its preparations to host the 17th Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD COP17) in 2026. This major international event will allow Armenia to present its environmental achievements and lead global discussions on the future of biodiversity protection.

As part of its ongoing green transition, Armenia has committed to restore forests across 12.9% of its territory by 2030, increase protection for endangered species, and reduce threats to freshwater ecosystems — particularly Lake Sevan. With support from global environmental organizations and in partnership with IUCN, Armenia aims to align its policies with the European Union’s Green Deal, expand the Emerald Network of protected areas, and promote Nature-based Solutions for sustainable development.

By joining IUCN, Armenia gains access to a powerful international platform for collaboration and innovation. This membership opens doors to global partnerships and financial mechanisms, including the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the Global Biodiversity Framework Fund (GBFF).

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