Forum Session Formats

The Forum at the IUCN World Conservation Congress 2025 offers a diverse array of session formats designed to foster innovation, inclusivity, and impactful dialogue. 

Each format is tailored to engage participants in unique ways, encouraging collaboration across sectors and communities.​ Explore each format below.

 High-Level Sessions

Flagship sessions that gather global leaders, decision-makers, and influencers to spotlight urgent environmental issues and chart bold paths forward. These moments set the tone for the Forum and drive momentum around transformative action.

 Thematic Sessions

Large-scale, 90-minute sessions designed to anchor the Forum’s major themes by engaging participants in solution-driven, participatory dialogue that moves beyond standard panels.

A rotating discussion format with inner and outer circles, enabling any participant to step into the conversation. This dynamic structure ensures broad, spontaneous input while maintaining a focused discussion.

A conversational process in small, rotating groups that allows diverse perspectives to surface across multiple questions or themes. This informal, café-style approach promotes collaborative thinking and collective insight.

An Oxford-style format that sparks lively, evidence-based exchanges on pressing conservation issues. Participants and experts present opposing viewpoints, with the audience actively voting and engaging before and after the debate.
 Fireside Chats

Candid, intimate conversations with thought leaders and innovators. These sessions provide personal insights and stories that inspire and challenge conventional thinking.​

 Speaker Pitches

Short, impactful presentations that spotlight innovations, grassroots initiatives, and inspiring conservation actions. Formats include Conservation Showcases (TED-style talks with e-posters) and Lightning Talks.

TED-inspired sessions where 1–2 speakers deliver a 12–15-minute talk, followed by Q&A. These are accompanied by e-posters available onsite and online throughout the event.

Lightning talks, also called ‘data blitz’ are short-form presentations, usually between 5 to 7 minutes in length. Lightning talks are a powerful way to communicate through quick, energising talks on a particular topic, product or issue.

Engaging online-only formats that offer flexible storytelling, from solo episodes to co-hosted or interview-style shows. Each podcast includes interactive time with the virtual audience and ends with a strong call to action.
 Learning Zone Sessions

Are focused on skill development and practical training in conservation tools and strategies. Formats include Speedy Learning, Toolbox, and Deep-Dive sessions.

40-minute sessions combining concise expert input with interactive discussions. Ideal for quick knowledge exchange and networking on focused conservation topics.

Hands-on workshops lasting 2 to 4 hours, designed to build practical skills through interactive methods. Participants gain tools they can immediately apply in their work.

In-depth explorations of complex conservation issues, offering detailed analysis and extended engagement. Sessions run 2 to 4 hours and aim for lasting understanding and impact.
 Art & Nature Exhibits

Creative spaces where art intersects with conservation, showcasing works that provoke thought and inspire action. Exhibits include visual arts, performances, and interactive installations.​

IUCN Voices for Change people talking
Girl looking at art exhibit of jellyfish