IUCN works to better manage nature for human well-being and
promote an understanding that conservation and livelihoods are
inextricably linked. It does this by developing policies and
strategies to help natural resource-dependent people, especially
women, to sustainably manage ecosystems to improve their
livelihoods; and by helping to implement sustainable and
equitable environmental management. IUCN promotes recognition
and respect of indigenous peoples and local communities' rights
and institutions, and supports conservation practices based on
traditional knowledge and cultural values. The fulfilment of
IUCN’s mission requires the Union to address and effectively
integrate key social issues in its conservation programmes. IUCN
links its Mission to the paramount goals of the international
community on environment and sustainable development, in
particular Agenda 21 and the Millennium Development Goals (MDG).
Consequently, IUCN is committed to making its programmes and
activities fully responsive to such agre