For over two decades, the AUA Acopian Center has been at the forefront of advancing environmental research, education, and policy dialogue in Armenia. Its work spans biodiversity protection and conservation, sustainable resource management, green energy, and integrating environmental considerations into community development and urban planning.

Through research and outreach, the Center has played a pivotal role in fostering environmental awareness and equipping decision-makers, practitioners, and students with the knowledge and tools to shape a more sustainable future. By becoming an IUCN Member, the AUA Acopian Center is broadening its collaboration with the global conservation community.

“Our membership in IUCN is a major milestone that allows us to connect with the world’s leading network of conservation expertise and strengthen our ability to address Armenia’s pressing environmental challenges,” said Alen Gasparian Amirkhanian, Director of the AUA Acopian Center. “We look forward to contributing our expertise, forging new partnerships, and amplifying our impact on both national and international conservation agendas.”

“With Armenia hosting CBD COP17 in 2026, this new role within IUCN comes at a crucial moment. It will boost our capacity to implement biodiversity conservation projects, enhance restoration efforts, and actively contribute to global environmental goals,” highlighted Dr Arsen Gasparyan, Center’s biodiversity expert.

The AUA Acopian Center has already worked closely with IUCN and its Regional Office for Eastern Europe and Central Asia on initiatives such as the Green Agenda Armenia, Moldova, and Ukraine (GUMA) project, focusing on biodiversity policy assessment and integration. This new membership builds on that foundation and opens fresh opportunities for engagement in IUCN’s global portfolio of programmes and initiatives.

With its guiding vision of harmonising people and nature, the AUA Acopian Center remains committed to safeguarding Armenia’s biodiversity, advancing sustainable energy and resource use, and inspiring a new generation of environmental leaders. Its IUCN membership provides a platform to elevate these efforts and further Armenia’s contribution to global conservation.

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To learn who can become an IUCN Member and how, please visit this page.