Congresses are moments where knowledge meets action, and collective ambition becomes a shared pathway for change. The IUCN World Conservation Congress (9–15 October) is one such moment: a global stage where voices unite, ideas spark, and the future of conservation takes shape. At this gathering, BESTLIFE2030 steps forward with a clear message: locally led action across the EU Overseas is a driving force for lasting conservation impact.
Aligned with the Congress’ core themes—scaling up resilient conservation action, reducing climate risks, delivering on equity, advancing nature-positive economies, and sparking disruptive leadership—BESTLIFE2030 highlights the perspective of those living and working on biodiversity’s frontlines. From showcasing the essential role of islands, to strengthening community capacities, reshaping grant-making, and amplifying grassroots voices, BESTLIFE2030 demonstrates how EU Overseas communities are not only adapting to climate change and biodiversity loss, but are crafting solutions rooted in local knowledge and lived realities.
By bridging the local and the global, BESTLIFE2030 shows that when communities are empowered, biodiversity thrives—unlocking a flourishing future for both people and nature.
Why attend BESTLIFE2030’s sessions?
See conservation in action. Hear stories, explore tools, and connect with EU Overseas communities as they tackle real-world challenges in leadership, funding, communication, and advocacy. Join grant-makers, local innovators, communicators, and public representatives to discover practical solutions and witness how grassroots action is shaping a resilient, nature-positive future.
BESTLIFE2030 journey at the IUCN Congress at a glance
10 October, 10:30–12:00 (GMT+4), Stage 3, IUCN Programme Pavilion
Scaling up on-the-ground conservation action in the EU Overseas
Why attend: Hear island leaders, grantees, and donors share how community-led initiatives and flexible funding are turning local conservation into lasting results.
11 October, 8:30–10:30 (GMT+4), Forum Session
Better grant-making: exploring best practices and knowledge sharing
Why attend: Discover how smarter, fairer funding puts resources directly in the hands of communities leading biodiversity action.
11 October, 10:30–12:00 (GMT+4), Stage 1, IUCN Programme Pavilion
Communications for conservation action
Why attend: Learn how effective storytelling and communication strategies can turn conservation ideas into movements that inspire change.
11 October, 18:00–19:00 (GMT+4), IUCN Green List Pavilion
Enhancing conservation effectiveness through local ownership
Why attend: See how communities, equipped with the right tools and trust, transform ownership into lasting conservation impact.
12 October, 17:30–18:30 (GMT+4), Pavillon France
Sustainable organisational development of civil society
Why attend: Rethink what real capacity building means for resilient, independent organisations leading biodiversity action.
13 October, 12:00–13:30 (GMT+4), Stage 2, IUCN Programme Pavilion
Granting conservation a chance: Impact of IUCN grant-making programmes
Why attend: Learn how IUCN’s global grant programmes empower hundreds of local actors to deliver results where it matters most.
13 October, 13:00–14:00 (GMT+4), IUCN Green List Pavilion
Mapping designated areas across the EU Overseas
Why attend: Explore an interactive map and real field stories showing how local actions connect into a worldwide conservation network.
On the ground, in the field, in the communities that live closest to nature, in global fora change is happening. BESTLIFE2030 shows how small, locally led actions, from islands to remote territories, can ripple outward, shaping ecosystems, policies, and lives. These sessions are a chance to witness that work firsthand, hear the voices of those working on it, and learn from the practical solutions emerging where conservation meets daily life. Here, impact is tangible, lessons are real, and every story reminds us that protecting biodiversity starts with people rooted in place.
