The Yeoncheon Global Forum on Peace with Nature convened on October 23-24, 2025, in Yeoncheon, South Korea, drawing together around 200 participants, including 23 overseas delegates and speakers. The forum gathered representatives from 14 local governments — seven from Korea and seven from abroad — as well as environmental experts and community leaders from 11 countries. Under the theme “Solution for local governments to achieve peaceful coexistence with nature,” the forum addressed urgent topics such as war, climate change, population decline, and other factors that threaten our shared living spaces.

Hosted by Yeoncheon County and ICLEI Korea, and supported by ICLEI East Asia, the event aligned with the Global Biodiversity Framework’s 30 × 30 target and ICLEI’s nature-based development pathway. The forum facilitated in-depth discussions and knowledge sharing on innovative solutions for biodiversity, sustainability, and local-global cooperation.

 

Session highlights included:

Waterbird Conservation and Transboundary Cooperation: Moderated by Ge, Strategy Manager at ICLEI East Asia Secretariat, the Session 1 “Waterbird conservation and transboundary cooperation” explored the current status of Yeoncheon’s protected areas and the complex geopolitical issues facing the region. Participants discussed relevant global initiatives, such as “Journeys for Life,” and highlighted local efforts to safeguard crucial biospheres.

Eco-friendly education initiatives in schools and kindergartens: Ms. Ankhmaa Shijirbaatar, Head of the Social Policy Department of Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, participated as a panelist in Session 2 “Peri-urban and urban green networks, connectivity, and citizen well-being”. She emphasized Ulaanbaatar’s commitment to becoming a livable, eco-friendly, and people-centered smart city under Mongolia’s Vision 2050, highlighting the pivotal role of schools and kindergartens in fostering green, inclusive environments.

Incentive-Based Policies for Coexistence with Nature: Ms. Xu Yu, Deputy Director-General of the Guiyang Ecology and Environment Bureau in China, shared Guiyang’s approach to building an eco-friendly city in Session 4 “Incentive-based policies for coexistence with nature”. Her presentation detailed the city’s dedication to nature-based solutions and biodiversity conservation, as well as the importance of public participation through education and incentive programs. Guiyang’s green belt, favorable climate, and ongoing biodiversity surveys demonstrate innovative practices in protecting and enhancing ecological assets while fostering citizen engagement.

Through these sessions and collaborative discussions, the Yeoncheon Global Forum underscored the crucial role of local governments, cross-border cooperation, and community engagement in advancing a harmonious relationship with nature. The event showcased practical solutions and shared aspirations for resilient, biodiverse, and sustainable urban environments worldwide.