Speaking a common language : the uses and performances of the IUCN system of management categories for protected areas

The system of protected area management categories lies at the centre of IUCN's work and its mission; their effective use is of fundamental concern to the Union and its members. This project has looked at the successes, failures, strengths and weaknesses of the categories after a decade of use, with the intention of giving guidance on steps needed to improve their future effectiveness in response to changing needs and conditions.