IUCN, the International Union for Conservation of Nature

IUCN welcomes Mexico as a new State Member

23 October 2008 | News story

The Mexican Department of Foreign Affairs announced the decision of the Government of Mexico to adhere to IUCN Statutes, thus becoming a State Member of IUCN.

The National Commission for Natural Protected Areas, a deconcentrated agency under the authority of the Department of the Environment and Natural Resources (SEMARNAT), has been designated as liaison with IUCN.

IUCN extends its warmest welcome to Mexico, a country which enjoys a rich and widely recognized biological diversity. Its physiographic, geological and climatological characteristics have facilitated the establishment and evolution of almost all types of worldwide known ecosystems, as well as a remarkable plant and animal species diversity. The diversity of Mexico’s natural resources, its history, its cultural diversity, its social and economic conditions make us proud to welcome this country as a new State Member of our organization.

Mexico has been a pioneer in terms of IUCN’s membership: several Mexican environmental organizations became members of the Union since it was founded, 60 years ago. Mexico has also played a key role in the establishment of the IUCN Regional Office for Meso-America. In addition to the State Member, Mexico is currently home to 15 IUCN NGO members, which play a significant role in the field of environment and sustainable development. Together, these NGOs constitute the IUCN Mexican National Committee. Furthermore, a number of internationally recognized Mexican experts contribute their knowledge, innovation and expertise to IUCN Commissions.

For more information, please see the UICN main website.

Contact person: Tannia Falconer, Membership Relations Unit, IUCN Regional Office for Meso-America, Tel: (506) 2241 0101; email: tannia.falconer@iucn.org; www.iucn.org/mesoamerica