WCC 2012 Res 005 - Activity Report

The existence of a working group of National Committees in Europe has proven to be a very effective way to strengthen the relationship between the different components of the Union. The excellent relationship between the Secretariat (through the now abolished European Coordination Unit) and National Committees allowed the group to work jointly and closely on a series of strategic processes for IUCN in the region (including the Implementation Plan of the IUCN Programme 2017-2020). Through giving some visibility to the work of Members, the Working Group has also strengthen the feeling of "belonging" of Members, within the Union, allowing National Committees to play the key role they have been established for. The successful European RCF, in December 2015, shows the strength of Union when working as such, through a close collaboration between the Secretariat and the Membership (through National Committees).
In the few occasions where the European Working Group was presented outside of the region, it was considered as an example to be replicated in other IUCN regions. The establishment of a global Working Group of National/Regional Committees was also seen as a useful way forward.