Abu Dhabi, UAE – 11 October 2025 – At the 2025 IUCN World Conservation Congress, the IUCN World Commission on Protected Areas (WCPA) celebrated the extraordinary dedication of rangers worldwide by presenting the 2025 International Ranger Awards. Thirteen exceptional rangers and ranger teams were recognised for their courage, resilience, and tireless commitment to safeguarding the planet’s most precious ecosystems.
The International Ranger Awards highlight the essential work of these conservation professionals, raising public awareness of their challenges while providing crucial funds to support the lands and species they protect. This year, the WCPA, in partnership with Conservation Allies, the Universal Ranger Support Alliance, and the International Union for Conservation of Nature, presented awards ranging from $5,000 to $25,000 to six individuals and seven teams from 13 countries, including Ukraine, Burkina Faso, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
Conservation Action Stage awards and winners
Photo©IUCN/Marcus Rose/Workers Photos
“Rangers are the guardians of our planet’s most vulnerable ecosystems,” said Dr Grethel Aguilar, IUCN Director General. “From protecting endangered species to safeguarding landscapes under threat, their dedication inspires us all and underscores our collective responsibility to conserve nature for future generations.”
The 2025 awardees represent a remarkable diversity of roles—from anti-poaching patrols and habitat restoration to community engagement and scientific research. Highlights include Rodrigue Katembo Mugaruka of the Democratic Republic of Congo, recognised for defending Virunga National Park from corruption and exploitation, and the Tuzlovski Lymany National Nature Park Ranger Team of Ukraine, commended for protecting estuaries and wildlife amid conflict. Other recipients include teams from Lebanon, Madagascar, Kenya, Panama, and more, each demonstrating courage and innovation in conservation.
Leica Sportoptik proudly supported the awards, providing each of the 13 recipients with a Leica Trinovid 10×42 HD binocular, renowned as “the professional conservation binocular” and trusted by organizations around the world in the field. These tools will empower rangers to continue their vital work, whether monitoring endangered species or overseeing vast natural landscapes.
Over the past 15 years, more than 1,500 rangers have lost their lives on duty, highlighting the risks these individuals face daily. The 2025 International Ranger Award recipients exemplify bravery, dedication, and the transformative impact of conservation, proving that when nature thrives, so do communities.
The award ceremony, held on 11 October in Abu Dhabi, brought together conservationists, scientists, policymakers, and Heads of State to celebrate these remarkable individuals and teams. Supported by Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD), BMZ, GIZ, and IFAW, the event underscored a global commitment to empowering rangers who protect our natural heritage.