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International Partnerships

'New deal' for conservation rangers signals a critical step for the planet’s health

Not only do they prevent habitat and ecosystem destruction, but they prevent zoonotic spillovers and pandemics, pollution, and the kinds of fires we are seeing burn bigger and hotter each year.

Mike Appleton, vice chair for capacity development in the IUCN World Commission on Protected Areas and Global Wildlife Conservation’s director of protected area management

Rangers work in very remote and difficult working environments, endangering their lives to protect the world’s wildlife and natural resources.

Chris Galliers, IRF president

Through its action plan, URSA aims to address these specific needs:

  • Better pay, working conditions and equipment Many rangers do their jobs without proper pay, contracts, equipment or insurance - often in dangerous environments.
  • Better opportunities for training and learning The work expected from rangers is varied and highly skilled. Yet around half feel that they are inadequately trained.
  • More trust and accountability Rangers need to treat people fairly and to strictly observe the law and the rights of others; they need robust guidance and leadership.
  • Fairer employment opportunities and conditions There are currently not nearly enough rangers to do the enormous job required of them, so creating more jobs is a priority.
  • Better representation and advocacy While the IRF is the global professional body for rangers, many rangers remain unrepresented. URSA will work to empower national ranger associations.