IUCN’s World Conservation Congress presents the perfect opportunity to give international recognition to commendable individuals who have contributed their vision, time and energy to the international conservation cause.
At each IUCN World Conservation Congress, three prestigious awards are presented to deserving recipients for their contribution to conservation. These awards, the Harold Jefferson Coolidge Memorial Medal, the John C. Phillips Memorial Medal and Honorary membership of IUCN will be presented in Abu Dhabi in October 2025.
Call for nominations for
The John C. Phillips Memorial Medal
IUCN Members and Commission members are invited to submit nominations for the John C. Phillips Memorial Medal. This medal recognises outstanding service in international conservation and commemorates the life and work of Dr. John C. Phillips, a pioneer of the conservation movement.
Nominations may be submitted by completing the John C. Phillips Memorial Medal Nomination Form and sending it to the IUCN Council Awards Panel at awards@iucn.org by 30 June 2025.
The Harold Jefferson Coolidge Memorial Medal
Nominations for the Harold Jefferson Coolidge Memorial Medal may be submitted by anyone, including members of the general public. This medal recognises individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the conservation of nature and natural resources. It commemorates the life and work of Harold Jefferson Coolidge, one of the founders of IUCN, a former president of the Union and its driving force for many years.
Nominations may be submitted by completing the Harold Jefferson Coolidge Memorial Medal Nomination Form and sending it to the IUCN Council Awards Panel at awards@iucn.org by 30 June 2025.
The Honorary Membership of IUCN
Honorary Membership of IUCN dates back to the first General Assembly of IUCN in Fontainebleau in 1948 and is bestowed on any individual who has rendered outstanding service to the conservation of nature and natural resources and to furthering the Mission of the Union. Recipients include past Presidents and Directors General, members of Council, members of Commissions and leading figures from IUCN Member organisations.
IUCN Members and Commission Members are invited to give thought to worthy individuals.
Nominations should be submitted by completing the Honorary Membership of IUCN Nomination Form and sending it to the IUCN Council Awards Panel at awards@iucn.org by 30 June 2025.
In all cases, please do take the time to give thought to leading conservation figures who embody the pioneering spirit of John C. Phillips, or the ideals of Harold Jefferson Coolidge and who would merit the international recognition of IUCN’s worldwide constituency. Specific attention should be paid to the nomination of candidates in society that may have fewer opportunities to come into the limelight.
Once the jury has taken its final decision, the names of the winners will remain confidential until the awards are presented at the IUCN World Conservation Congress being held in Abu Dhabi, UAE, 9-15 October 2025. Winners will be contacted in advance and are expected to attend the IUCN Congress to receive their award in person.
Please note that posthumous nominations are not permitted. Organisations and current IUCN staff members are not eligible, and individuals may not nominate themselves.
We look forward to receiving your nominations at awards@iucn.org by 30 June 2025 at the latest.
