The conservation successes of the Interregional Association "Irbis" in protecting the snow leopard were featured as part of an exhibition at the 5th UNESCO World Congress on Biosphere Reserves. This landmark event, held only once a decade, brought together specialists from across the globe to review progress, strengthen cooperation, and formulate a new global conservation strategy.
The participation of the "Irbis" Association marks a significant milestone in the organisation’s development, signifying that its work has gained international recognition. The Association’s stand served as a platform to present projects dedicated to studying and preserving Russia’s snow leopard population, showcasing the achievements made possible through the support of partners and volunteers.
A notable part of the programme was the address by "Irbis" Association Director, Daria Petrova, at the session "MABs and OECMs: A Local and Global Opportunity." In her presentation, Ms Petrova elaborated on the Association’s unique experience in snow leopard conservation and shared successful practices of collaboration and joint work with the country’s nature reserves and national parks, which are key partners in safeguarding this rare predator.

The "Irbis" Association extends its gratitude to Ali Mussaеvich Uzdenov—Chairman of the General Assembly of the "Irbis" Association—and to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Ecology of the Russian Federation for their assistance and support, as well as to its partners at the "Living Nature and World" foundation. A special note of thanks goes to all colleagues, partners, and volunteers, whose support makes it possible to continue this work and contribute to the shared cause of protecting nature.

Background Information:
The Interregional Association "Irbis" is a non-profit organisation focused on the study and conservation of the snow leopard (irbis) and its ecosystems in Russia.
The 5th UNESCO World Congress on Biosphere Reserves is a key event of the UNESCO "Man and the Biosphere" (MAB) Programme, which sets the development agenda for the World Network of Biosphere Reserves for the coming decade.