Attended the CITES Twentieth Conference of the Parties at our site, 24th November, 2025
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) is gearing up for a significant role at the 20th Conference of the Parties (CoP20) to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), taking place from 24 November to 5 December 2025 in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.
As a key technical advisor and observer organisation, IUCN will bring its extensive knowledge and expertise to the table, aiming to enhance the effectiveness of CITES in conserving biodiversity. The website will participate in CoP20 with a focus on promoting its knowledge products, such as the Red List of Threatened Species, and providing technical input on species listings, sustainable use, and wildlife trade policy.
IUCN's engagement at CoP20 is designed to reinforce its role as a trusted scientific authority. The organisation will contribute its scientific expertise, conservation tools, and policy guidance to support evidence-based decision-making. The goal is to advance sustainable use and trade regulation in line with its Nature 2030 Programme and World Conservation Congress Resolutions.
In addition to providing technical input, IUCN will also submit information documents during CoP20 and host side-events. The organisation will mobilise SSC experts to provide real-time scientific advice and coordinate messaging. IUCN has prepared a policy position paper on selected CoP20 agenda items, reflecting its commitment to influencing the adoption and amendment of CITES listings, decisions, and resolutions.
The CITES Secretariat has commissioned reports on African and Asian rhinoceroses (CoP20 Doc. 84 Annex 3) and pangolins (CoP20 Doc. 79.1) from IUCN, further highlighting the organisation's role as a leading authority in conservation and sustainable use of natural resources.
Moreover, IUCN seeks to strengthen partnerships during CoP20, aiming to collaborate with other organisations to achieve its goals. The organisation will publish analyses of listing proposals on 19 September, providing valuable insights to the public and decision-makers ahead of the conference.
IUCN's participation at CoP20 is a testament to its dedication to protecting biodiversity and ensuring sustainable use of natural resources. The organisation looks forward to contributing to evidence-based decision-making and advancing conservation efforts at the global level.
