Forum themes and programme​

During the Conservation Forum the EAZA Conservation Committee strives to create a meaningful platform where the zoo and aquarium community as well as the field conservation community can discuss and exchange experiences in conservation and continue to build bridges between the two worlds. We continue to have a specific focus on how to best deliver conservation activities of high quality and positive impact, no matter what the scale.

The programme of the EAZA Conservation Forum 2026 will be partially based and formed with content coming from your submitted abstracts as well as invited speakers through the EAZA Conservation Committee. We are open to receive abstracts for oral presentations (10 or 20 minutes), workshops or workshop elements, (panel)discussions and posters.

The themes we are looking to highlight this edition are:

Theme 1 - Social science in conservation

This theme explores how social science shapes and strengthens conservation practice around the world. We invite abstracts that highlight how human dimensions — from community engagement and policy to behavioral change, governance, equity, and livelihoods — are integrated into conservation strategies and outcomes.

For example:

• Research or real-life examples of how social science improved conservation outcomes.

• Examples of working together with people from different fields of expertise or culture, groups, or communities.

• Lessons you have learned about working with people, sharing power, and making conservation inclusive.

• New ways of doing conservation together with communities and sharing knowledge with everyone involved.

Theme 2 - Collaboration

This theme explores the power of partnerships — from local to global, informal to formal — that help bridge sectors, cultures, and knowledge systems for lasting conservation impact. We invite abstracts that highlight real-world examples of collaboration in conservation, including but not limited to:

• Examples of strategies for initiating and sustaining collaborations and building partnerships with Indigenous Peoples, local communities, landowners, etc.

• Examples of how to engage with government agencies, NGOs, and the private sector.

• Collaborating with non-traditional partners such as artists, health practitioners, or businesses.

• (Experience with) Tools, platforms, funding mechanisms or policies that support collaborations in conservation.

• Examples of co-management, co-design, or participatory decision-making processes for conservation.

• Lessons learned on navigating conflicts, trust-building, power-sharing, or governance challenges in partnerships.

Theme 3 - European species conservation

This theme highlights practical ways for people and organisations to actively engage in conservation of European species, from local initiatives to cross-border efforts. We’re looking for real examples, inspiring ideas, and lessons learned that help others see where they can contribute and how to get started.

• Volunteer and citizen science programs that connect people to species monitoring and habitat protection.

• Community-led conservation efforts or local stewardship initiatives.

• (Experience with) Tools, platforms, funding mechanisms or policies that make it easier for people to contribute to conservation goals.

General guidance for submitting abstracts

• We aim to develop as many interactive sessions as we can to help participants exchange ideas, discover new ways to get involved, maximise peer learning and collective problem-solving. So, you may be asked to adapt your submitted abstract to a different format, so it can be part of a workshop, panel, or facilitated discussion.

• Ideally you would describe potential interactive elements you can add — for example, mini-discussions, prepared questions or polls, small group activities, or shared problem-solving to spark practical action. activities that could help participants explore partnership-building in their own work

• Ensure you have strong 'take home messages'.

• Ensure applicability to a wide range of the participants.

• We highly encourage evidence-based information to support your subject matter, but please avoid abstracts that are purely focusing on presenting and promoting specific conservation projects.

ABSTRACT SUBMISSION DEADLINE: 25 JANUARY 2026 (END OF DAY)

By clicking on Submit your abstract here you will be redirected to a webpage and asked to create an author account on Aanmelder.nl if you do not have one yet.