“Nature embodies a promise of peace, harmony, and abundance – values we seek because they reflect who we aspire to be: interconnected, humble, and creative.” - Arafet Ben Marzou
This reflection marked the conclusion of my recent address to a gathering of young activists exploring humanity's relationship with nature. However, my journey began far from conference halls, on bicycle paths stretching across continents. As an engineer turned explorer, I discovered nature as a universal language – a subtle grammar shaping our thoughts, ethics and dreams.
Returning to Tunisia, inspired by these experiences, I founded Exploralis, an innovative initiative weaving science, art, and activism around the Medjerda River. Through numerous expeditions, we engaged ecologists in extensive biodiversity research, artists in capturing the subtle dialogues between people and nature, and local villagers who generously entrusted us with ancient stories and legends. In 2018, our mission gained further momentum by joining IUCN, allowing us to amplify our advocacy efforts through its influential motion process.
After initial challenges, our persistence recently led to the acceptance of our motion, now set for debate and voting at the IUCN World Conservation Congress 2025, proposes the creation of an international platform for Conservation Diplomacy – an essential bridge connecting grassroots experiences to global environmental governance.
Through immersive field experiences, the Medjerda revealed profound truths: nature’s complexities are mirrored in human society, revealing that protecting nature is inherently tied to advancing social justice. Recognising this interconnectedness highlighted the necessity of storytelling as a powerful tool to bridge the gap between nature and society.
This insight inspired the creation of Ecologia, a media platform blending voices from nature, science, activism and philosophy. Each episode challenges listeners to reimagine their relationship with the environment, transforming them from passive observers into engaged participants. Aligned with the IUCN Congress 2025 theme of Disruptive Innovation, Ecologia leverages storytelling as a catalyst for meaningful and transformative change.
In one particularly compelling episode featuring Dr. Alejandro Iza from the IUCN Centre for Environmental Law, we delve into water’s dual role as both a vital resource and a strategic geopolitical factor. This conversation underscores water diplomacy's essential function in promoting international cooperation, resolving conflicts, and ensuring equitable access to essential resources.
Today, when I look at the Medjerda, I see more than a river – it is a vibrant archive, connecting our history with future possibilities. My journey has reinforced a fundamental insight: addressing our ecological crisis requires reimagining our collective relationship with nature. To genuinely protect life, we must first learn to narrate its profound stories with clarity, courage and unwavering commitment.
The upcoming IUCN Congress 2025 offers a vital space to elevate conservation diplomacy – where rivers like the Medjerda are not just ecosystems, but starting points for dialogue, cooperation and transformative change.