IUCN/Nature Conservancy: signing of a MoU to strengthen Nature-based Solutions in the Western Balkans

The Nature Conservancy (TNC) in Europe and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) have signed a Memorandum of understanding "to enhance cooperation in developing sustainable, long‑term financing mechanisms (Nature-based Solutions) for protected areas across the Western Balkans", they announced on 19/04/2026.

"While the Western Balkans is recognized as a global biodiversity hotspot, the region continues to face significant challenges in ensuring effective and adequately financed conservation. Protected areas in particular struggle with limited capacities and insufficient funding, underscoring the urgent need for more systematic and long‑term support".

The two organizations aim to develop financing models "that can provide effective long-term financial support for protected areas over a period of at least 15 years".

Furthermore, this partnership reinforces the commitment of both organizations "to support the region in strengthening biodiversity conservation and contributing to broader environmental processes, including the Green Agenda for the Western Balkans". This…