The six IUCN Commissions unite 10,000 volunteer experts from a range of disciplines. They assess the state of the world’s natural resources and provide the Union with sound know-how and policy advice on conservation issues.

World Commission on Protected Areas (WCPA)

WCPA promotes the establishment and effective management of a worldwide representative network of terrestrial and marine protected areas.

Members: 1300

For more information, visit World Commission on Protected Areas.

Commission on Education and Communication (CEC)

CEC drives change for the co-creation of sustainable solutions through leading communication, learning and knowledge management in IUCN and the wider conservation community.

Members: 1050

For more information, visit Commission on Education and Communication.

Commission on Environmental, Economic and Social Policy (CEESP)

CEESP provides expertise and policy advice on economic and social factors for the conservation and sustainable use of biological diversity.

Members: 1465

For more information, visit Commission on Environmental, Economic and Social Policy.

Commission on Environmental Law (CEL)

CEL advances environmental law by developing new legal concepts and instruments, and by building the capacity of societies to employ environmental law for conservation and sustainable development.

Members: 800

For more information, visit Commission on Environmental Law.

Commission on Ecosystem Management (CEM)

CEM provides expert guidance on integrated ecosystem approaches to the management of natural and modified ecosystems.

Members: 1000

For more information, visit Commission on Ecosystem Management.

Species Survival Commission (SSC)

SSC advises the Union on the technical aspects of species conservation and mobilises action for those species that are threatened with extinction.

Members: 7500

For more information, visit Species Survival Commission.