Motion 106

Background and Justification

Persons with disabilities face significant barriers to accessing and participating in natural spaces and conservation initiatives. While the IUCN has adopted resolutions promoting human rights and inclusive environmental management, no specific framework addresses the physical, sensory, and informational challenges faced by persons with disabilities. Global frameworks such as the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (2006), the UN Disability Inclusion Strategy (2019), and the European Accessibility Act highlight the urgent need to incorporate universal accessibility in all sectors, including nature conservation.

This motion fills a policy gap in IUCN's resolutions, promoting social inclusion and universal accessibility in its operations and the management of natural areas, urban parks, and green spaces. It underscores IUCN's leadership in ensuring equitable access to nature for all, reinforcing commitments to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) and SDG 15 (Life on Land).

Why a Motion is Required
A motion is necessary because current IUCN resolutions do not explicitly address the inclusion of persons with disabilities in conservation. Policy changes of this scale need formal endorsement by the IUCN Assembly to ensure coherent action at all levels. Internal guidelines or working group recommendations alone would lack the institutional mandate and visibility needed to make accessibility a strategic priority. Adoption of this motion will embed universal accessibility as a guiding principle in IUCN’s framework and operations, reinforcing its role as a leader in inclusive conservation.