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Indian Conservationist Vivek Menon Elected to Lead Global IUCN Commission
15 Oct
Summary
- Vivek Menon elected as new Chair of IUCN Species Survival Commission
- First Asian leader to head the 75-year-old global conservation body
- Menon's 3-decade career spans over 50 countries, founding 5 major organizations
In a significant milestone for global conservation efforts, renowned Indian wildlife expert Vivek Menon has been elected as the new Chair of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Species Survival Commission (SSC) for the 2025-2029 term. Menon's appointment marks the first time in the Commission's 75-year history that an Asian leader will head this prestigious global body.
A leading Indian conservationist, environmental commentator, author and photographer, Vivek Menon has dedicated his life to wildlife protection and habitat conservation. Over the past three decades, his work has advanced critical solutions on issues like illegal wildlife trade, species protection, and community-driven advocacy. From establishing reserves in Myanmar to shaping international policies through CITES, UNESCO, and national advisory boards, Menon has consistently bridged science and action.
As the new SSC Chair, Menon aims to strengthen the Commission into a more resilient, inclusive, and globally impactful network that drives tangible conservation outcomes and shapes influential policies. With a shared passion for life on Earth, Menon will lead the SSC's network of over 11,000 experts with integrity, transparency, and unwavering commitment.
