Safari Club International Foundation (SCIF) proudly participated in the IUCN World Conservation Congress 2025, held in Abu Dhabi from 13–15 October. This global event brought together governments, NGOs, scientists, and conservation leaders to shape the future of biodiversity policy.
Dr. Chris Comer attended in person, while Dries van Coller joined virtually, ensuring SCIF’s voice was heard in critical debates. Unlike CITES—where we only observe—IUCN gives us full membership rights, including the ability to vote on motions. This is a powerful opportunity to influence international conservation policy and defend the principle of conservation through sustainable use.
What Happened and Why It Matters
The Congress debated and voted on over 100 motions. Many were highly relevant to hunting, wildlife economies, and community-based conservation. Here are the key highlights:
- Motion 082 – Sustainable Management, Use and Trade of Wild Species
A cornerstone motion for us! It reinforces global commitments under the Kunming-Montreal Biodiversity Framework to halt overexploitation and promote sustainable use. We strongly supported this. - Motion 066 – Updating the Definition of Sustainable Use
This was a major concern. While framed as a “modernization,” the proposed changes risked weakening the principle that sustainable use benefits both people and wildlife. We opposed this strongly, making sure our position was clear—even though the final vote didn’t go our way. - Motion 113 – Longevity Conservation Approaches
Focused on protecting older animals in populations. We argued that wildlife management should remain science-based and adaptive, not blanket restrictions that ignore sustainable use. The Age Relationship of Animals proposals to restrict harvesting older individuals could undermine proven management systems. We emphasized that well-regulated hunting already accounts for population health. - Motion 133 – Moratorium on Genetically Engineering Wild Species
This passed, calling for a halt on genetic engineering in natural ecosystems. While not directly linked to hunting, it reflects growing debates on human intervention in wildlife.
A United Front for Sustainable Use
Our team worked tirelessly—often late into the night—alongside other sustainable use organizations to coordinate positions and defend hunting as a legitimate conservation tool. This collaboration ensured our perspective was part of the global conversation.
Why Our Participation Is Essential
IUCN vs. CITES: At IUCN, we vote and shape policy. At CITES, we cannot vote or participate to formulate positions. Active Engagement: Even when outcomes aren’t in our favor, being at the table matters. Future Influence: Our involvement helps secure recognition of hunting as a science-based conservation strategy. Thank you to all our members and partners who make this work possible. Your support ensures that sustainable use remains a cornerstone of global conservation policy. Together, we are making a difference!
