World Ranger Congress Declaration

The World Ranger Congress concluded with the Estes Park Declaration, which recognised the bravery and heroic efforts of rangers in protecting wildlife and natural areas around the world. A historic decision was made to hold the next World Ranger Congress in Nepal in 2019 – the first time the event will have ever been hosted in Asia.
The decision is recognition of the measures that the Nepal government has taken to professionalise its ranger force as well as the country’s remarkable anti-poaching successes in recent years. In early May, Nepal marked its 4th year of zero poaching of rhinos since 2011 due to a combination of motivated rangers, high level political will, cooperation with the military, and increased community involvement.
“Hosting the 9th World Ranger Congress is a great honour for Nepal and the brave men and women who patrol our parks: we would never have achieved zero poaching without their daily heroism,” said Krishna Prasad Acharya, Director General of Nepal’s Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation. “We look forward to welcoming the world’s rangers to Nepal in 2019 and sharing our anti-poaching success,” added Acharya.
© Sumanth Kuduvalli / Felis Creations / WWF
© Sumanth Kuduvalli / Felis Creations / WWF © Carrie Stengel - WWF
“When we arrive in Nepal in three years time, we must be able to look back and say that together we have increased both the respect and support for rangers so that they are now more motivated and equipped to do their difficult, dangerous – and critically important – jobs.”
Sean Willmore, President of International Ranger Federation (IRF)
WWF is committed to continuing to support rangers as they patrol the wildlife frontlines around the world. We sponsored 20 rangers from Asia, Africa and Latin America to attend the World Ranger Congress 2016.
Show your support for our #wildlifeheroes !