Secretary-General's statements

 On this International Women's Day, I am proud to stand alongside women worldwide who play a crucial role in the stewardship of our valuable wildlife. As the first woman to serve as Secretary-General of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, I am deeply inspired by the commitment and resilience of women in the field of natural resource conservation.Women are at the heart of conservation efforts, whether they are in scientific research, policymaking, training and education, or on-the-ground actions. Their perspectives and leadership are vital for fostering innovative solutions and ensuring the effective management of our natural resources. I acknowledge the remarkable achievement of women who are leading the key governing bodies of CITES, whose actions exemplify the critical role that women play in global environmental governance, fostering partnerships and working towards shared goals.