On Wednesday, August 6, 2025, CEDARE – Centre for Environment & Development for the Arab Region & Europe organized a rich dialogue session on the IUCN‘s Green List Programme for globally recognized protected areas, and the role of the West Asia EAGL (Expert Assessment Group for the Green List), affiliated with the IUCN Regional Office for West Asia, in enhancing the effectiveness of protected areas management in the Arab region.
Dr. Tamer Khafaga, Director of Research and Natural Resources Management at the King Salman Reserve and Chair of the MEWA EAGL, delivered a presentation highlighting the programme as the first global standard for effective management and good governance of protected areas. He outlined the progress achieved and promising opportunities for expanding regional accreditation.
The session also highlighted the environmental, social, economic, and institutional benefits of joining the Green List Programme and its role in supporting global biodiversity goals under the #KunmingMontreal Global Biodiversity Framework (#30×30). The Arab region presents a leading opportunity to showcase excellence in protected area management through collaboration, innovation, and sustainability.
