Over the course of each Congress, the IRF produces a Declaration that draws attention to, and builds upon current challenges and opportunities for the IRF and its members.
The Hyères Declaration: Uniting Rangers Worldwide for Conservation Excellence
In 2024, the International Ranger Federation (IRF) convened a global gathering of rangers in Hyères, France, to address the growing concerns and challenges facing conservation efforts worldwide. This historic meeting culminated in the creation of the Hyères Declaration, a landmark document that outlines the fundamental principles and goals of the IRF.
Purpose and Goal
The Hyères Declaration aims to unite rangers and conservation professionals across the globe in their pursuit of excellence in conservation. Its primary goal is to promote and support the critical work of rangers in protecting the world’s natural and cultural heritage. By establishing a shared vision and set of principles, the Declaration seeks to:
• Strengthen international cooperation and collaboration among rangers and conservation organizations
• Enhance the professional development and capacity building of rangers
• Promote the recognition and value of rangers’ contributions to conservation
• Foster a culture of excellence, safety, and best practices in conservation
A Call to Action
The Hyères Declaration serves as a call to action for the global ranger community, encouraging rangers, conservation organizations, and governments to work together to address the complex challenges facing conservation. By embracing the principles and goals outlined in the Declaration, we can ensure the long-term protection of our planet’s precious natural and cultural resources.
IRF World Ranger Congress Declarations
2024 – Hyères, France
Declarations: English | Espanol | French
Other languages versions of the 2024 Hyère Declaration can be found on our Resources page here.
2019 – Chitwan, Nepal
Declarations: English | Español
2016 – Estes Park, Colorado, USA
Declarations: English | Español
2012 – Arusha, Tanzania
Declarations: English | Español
2009 – Santa Cruz, Bolivia
Declarations: English (1) (2) | Español (1) (2)
2006 – Stirling, Scotland
Declarations: English
2003 – Wilsons Promontory National Park, Australia
Declarations: English
2000 – Kruger National Park, South Africa
Declarations: English (1) (2) | Español (1) (2)
1997 – San Jose, Costa Rica
Declarations: English | Español
1995 – Zakopane, Poland
Declarations: English | Español
Regional Ranger Congress Declarations
You will find Congress Declarations of our regional bodies in the Resources page here.
(Ranjan Ramchandani/ WWF)