IRF Newsletter

IRF Executive Director, Nina Fascione, and Indonesia Program Director, Inov Sectionov, attended the IUCN World Conservation Congress (WCC) in Abu Dhabi earlier this month. This global gathering brought together governments, NGOs, scientists and indigenous peoples’ member organizations to set priorities and drive action for wildlife and nature.

This summer, members of the WCC approved a motion, submitted by the Government of Indonesia, encouraging support for urgent action to secure the future of Critically Endangered Javan and Sumatran rhinos.

“These rhinos are on the brink of extinction and urgently need support,” said IRF Executive Director Nina Fascione. “The global community must act now.”

We are grateful to Indonesia for leading this important effort and calling on the world to step up.

To learn more about key moments during the WCC, read our latest blog below. 

IRF donated the magnificent, life-like sculpture to recognize the government of Indonesia's conservation efforts and to help focus attention on the continued need to protect Critically Endangered Javan rhinos. It was created by world-renowned artists Gillie and Marc and donated to IRF by donor Jessica Capps. IRF would like to thank Jessica for her generosity, and share her message about the sculpture. 

"My sincere hope is that all human and animal life within Indonesia will be protected and supported by this government, now and in the future. This life-size bronze sculpture can last for generations, and I hope the Javan rhino species will repopulate and thrive for many years to come.”

Undertaking both applied and basic research on wild rhino populations, as well as those in captive breeding programs, is an essential aspect of rhino conservation. IRF is the only organization in the world to provide funding strictly for research that strengthens the conservation of rhinos both in situ and ex situ. IRF is currently soliciting proposals for our next round of research funding and selected projects will begin in 2026. The grants will address one or more of IRF’s research priorities, which align with our three pillars: Saving Rhinos, Protecting Habitats and Engaging People. These priorities focus on the most pressing challenges in ensuring healthy, self-sustaining rhino populations that can thrive into the future. If you would like to support rhino research efforts, you can do so by making a donation to IRF here.

Your Next Rhino Watch

Looking for something inspiring to stream? Wild Ones features an incredible episode on the Javan rhino, capturing one of the rarest animals on Earth through stunning imagery and storytelling. Don’t miss this breathtaking look at hope, resilience and the fight to protect a species few will ever see in person.