IUCN's Members, Commissions and Secretariat

IUCN is a unique alliance of conservation organizations and special interest groups, with a membership of states, government agencies and non-governmental organizations. Through this extensive global network, IUCN has the unique ability to convene civil society and governments in dialogue, and to provide access to credible information on a range of environmental issues. Supported by a strong governance structure, the IUCN global network consists of three distinct but interrelated pillars: a Secretariat with 42 offices worldwide; 1,000 Members in some 140 countries, and a Commission network of 10,000 experts in 181 countries. IUCN also collaborates with partners relevant to its mission, including governments, universities, multilateral organizations and the private sector.

The World Conservation Congress is IUCN’s highest governing authority, convening every 4 years (next in 2008) to fulfil key governance functions related to IUCN’s programme, policy and management. The IUCN Council, consisting of elected representatives from the Union, has responsibility for oversight and general control of all the affairs of IUCN, and provides the governance system of the Union between Congresses.

IUCN’s Members are its principal ‘shareholders’ and range from States and government agencies to research and training institutions, and non-governmental organizations. The membership convenes at the Congress to define IUCN’s general policy, approve its programme and, through its networks, provide the means for the programme’s implementation. While Members play different roles within the Union, membership offers the benefits of extensive knowledge, resources and networks within IUCN.

IUCN's Six Commissions Ecosystem Management Guiding the management of natural and modified ecosystems Education and Communication Promoting sustainability through education and communication Environmental, Economic and Social Policy Advising on economic and social factors that affect natural resources Environmental Law Advancing environmental law and its application Protected Areas Advising on and promoting terrestrial and marine reserves, parks and protected areas Species Survival Supporting species conservation and protecting endangered species

IUCN’s Secretariat, responsible for managing the delivery of its programme and running day-to-day operations of the Union, consists of a core team of staff located in offices and regional clusters around the world.