From 30 September to 1 October 2024, Propark was represented by our colleague Erika Vaida Bela at the IUCN Regional Forum for Europe and Central Asia, held in Bruges, Belgium. The event brought together over 500 experts, young activists, government representatives, and environmental organizations from across the region, serving as a key moment for reflection, collaboration, and commitment to the future of protected areas.

As Regional Vice-Chair of the IUCN World Commission on Protected Areas (WCPA), Erika played an active role in the Europe-focused sessions. She highlighted the valuable work of the WCPA Europe Steering Committee and encouraged stronger collaboration among the network’s 700+ members through:

·       Organizing webinars;

·       Sharing relevant case studies;

·       Coordinating working groups to apply field-based expertise.

The forum brought forward crucial themes for re-shaping conservation efforts towards 2030:

·       Effectiveness of protected area management and implementation of the Global Biodiversity Framework;

·       Climate resilience through nature-based solutions;

·       The role of youth in nature leadership, alongside topics on conservation in times of crisis, such as the example of Ukraine;

·       Old-growth forest conservation, alpine ecosystem restoration, peatland protection, and integration of biodiversity into agriculture.

Propark’s participation in this forum aligns with the foundation’s strategic commitment to supporting international nature conservation efforts while also bringing Romanian success stories, challenges, and perspectives to the table. It stands as a clear example of how active engagement in international networks helps increase the visibility and influence of conservation professionals.