About the Congress
Bringing together rangers and conservation professionals from around the world
Rangers: Essential Workers for Our Planet
Rangers are some of the most essential workers on the planet. They protect and manage the world's protected and conserved areas, covering over 15% of the Earth's land surface and 8% of our oceans.
Yet their contributions are often undervalued, their working conditions poor, and their needs overlooked. The IRF World Ranger Congress is held in a different part of the world every 3-4 years, bringing together rangers to share experiences, build networks, and advance the profession.
About the 11th IRF World Ranger Congress
Puerto Iguazu, Argentina · 19-23 April 2027
For the first time, the World Ranger Congress comes to Argentina, set against the stunning backdrop of Iguazu Falls and the Atlantic Forest. This historic event marks a milestone for Latin American conservation and ranger communities.
Puerto Iguazu sits at the Triple Frontier — where Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay meet — making it a symbol of international cooperation in conservation. The congress will produce the Iguazu Declaration, a landmark statement emphasizing the role of rangers in nature conservation.
600 delegates from over 50 countries will gather for five days of plenary talks, workshops, field trips, and cultural exchanges.
Congress Starts In
Congress Activities
Plenary Talks
Sessions by prominent conservation experts addressing inclusive workforce, welfare of rangers, conduct, and capacity building.
Concurrent Workshops
Thematic workshops on equity & equality, indigenous people, one health, youth involvement, and more.
Open Discussions
Informal platforms for Indigenous Peoples, female rangers, youth leaders, volunteers, and retired rangers.
Cultural Nights
Evening entertainment featuring music, art, and cultural expressions from ranger communities worldwide.
Field Trips
Excursions to Iguazu National Park, Devil's Throat walkways.
Congress Theme
"Recognising Rangers: Advancing the profession to safeguard our future"
The theme focuses on improving working conditions, providing better equipment and training, and empowering rangers to play their vital role in biodiversity protection and building a sustainable future.
Message from IRF President
"Rangers are the backbone of our global conservation efforts. The 11th World Ranger Congress in Argentina represents a historic opportunity to advance our profession, share knowledge across borders, and strengthen the global ranger community. Together, we can safeguard our planet's future."
Chris Galliers
President, International Ranger Federation
Congress Objectives
Hover over each card to explore the key objectives of the 11th World Ranger Congress
Ranger Recognition & 30x30
Enhance recognition of the ranger profession and align with the global 30x30 Framework to protect 30% of the planet by 2030.
Ranger Experiences
Showcase ranger experiences, challenges, and contributions from all seven IRF regions worldwide.
Ranger Solutions
Develop practical solutions for regional and global conservation challenges through collaboration and knowledge sharing.
Ranger Declaration
Produce the Iguazu Declaration — a landmark statement emphasizing the role of rangers in nature conservation.
Ranger Recognition & 30x30
Enhance recognition of the ranger profession and align with the global 30x30 Framework to protect 30% of the planet by 2030.
Ranger Experiences
Showcase ranger experiences, challenges, and contributions from all seven IRF regions worldwide.
Ranger Solutions
Develop practical solutions for regional and global conservation challenges through collaboration and knowledge sharing.
Ranger Declaration
Produce the Iguazu Declaration — a landmark statement emphasizing the role of rangers in nature conservation.