A Rocha International at the IUCN* World Conservation Congress
A Rocha International coordinates the A Rocha Worldwide Family of organisations, and represents us all at global conservation/environmental events. This autumn, A Rocha International (ARI) were doing exactly that at the IUCN World Conservation Congress, where, in October, over 10,000 people from 189 nations gathered in Abu Dhabi. Among them were a few from the A Rocha family, including Ed Walker, ARI’s Executive Director. We asked him some Congress questions …
What did ARI bring that’s different? Did ARI get noticed?
‘A distinct Christian approach to conservation – we were, as far as we could tell, the only global Christian organisation there. It’s so important we were there, adding our voice and unique approach to debates and conversations that shape worldwide policy, and as a witness. Most people there are deeply committed to nature … in a way most of us can learn from. To help them see that Christians care about what they care about is important. We have a good news story on creation, one with hope – building relationships to share this is vital.
We weren’t noticed as much as I would like (next time, I’d prefer us to engage even more in the debates and motions) but many people came to our stand. Either they had never heard of us and were delighted to find a faith-based organisation that understood them and their faith, or they were ‘old friends’ who had worked with us before. Many in the latter group commented on the quality of our work.
Christian mission should stand up to scrutiny by sector leaders. If we love the Lord our God with all our mind, our science should be high quality – that both reveals our love and is a witness to the sector’.
What was the highlight?
‘I loved spending time with people from A Rocha India, Kenya and Ghana, seeing them showcase the quality of our work and advocating for change through the motions we supported.
I should also mention the very prestigious award given to Simon Stuart, my predecessor as Executive Director. He thanked people who had supported him over 40 years and mentioned Peter and Miranda Harris, A Rocha’s co-founders, who had guided his faith and helped him see how it connected to his love and passion for nature’.
What is the top priority action? What was disappointing?
‘Over 140 motions were passed – most were of high importance. As Christians, our call is to be leaders in this field – it represents God’s heart and the first commission, and to help our brothers and sisters understand that everything God made is for his glory.
I was disappointed by the lack of a larger Christian presence. Had the focus been human poverty, health or relief and development, you would have seen more Christians there’.
What gave you hope?
‘The sheer number and range of people, from every continent and corner of the world. God works through people – I’ve long believed that he doesn’t limit his work just to Christians’.
Hear reflections and observations from some of the A Rocha delegates and dialogue with the panel about the purpose and impact of the congress from 4-5pm GMT on 25 November 2025, with Judith Ochieng, Avinash Krishnan and Ed Walker. Book your place.
*International Union for Conservation of Nature
