An Indian wildlife conservationist, environmental commentator, author and photographer with a passion for elephants, Vivek Menon is a conservation leader whose lifelong dedication has created positive, global change for wildlife and natural habitats
With announcement wildlife conservationist Vivek Menon has become the first Asian to lead the commission in its 75-year history. Pic/Special Arrangement by Ranjeet Jadhav
Indian wildlife conservationist Vivek Menon has made history by becoming the first Asian Chair of the IUCN Species Survival Commission (SSC). He was elected for the 2025-2029 term during the IUCN World Conservation Congress held in Abu Dhabi.
With announcement Menon has become the first Asian to lead the commission in its 75-year history.
An Indian wildlife conservationist, environmental commentator, author and photographer with a passion for elephants, Vivek Menon is a conservation leader whose lifelong dedication has created positive, global change for wildlife and natural habitats.
“My goal is to strengthen the SSC into a more resilient, inclusive, and globally impactful network that drives action and shapes policy. I believe in the power of this global network of over 11,000 experts, united by a shared passion for life on Earth, and as Chair, I will lead it with integrity, transparency, and dedication,” Vivek Menon said.
Through expert guidance to premier organisations, participation in landmark initiatives, and training of enforcement personnel across more than 50 countries, Menon has advanced solutions to critical challenges like illegal wildlife trade and species protection. His impact stretches from establishing reserves in Myanmar to helping shape international conservation policies through active roles in CITES, UNESCO, and national advisory boards
Menon is known for his work in protecting elephants and tackling wildlife crime. With more than 30 years of experience, he has worked in over 100 countries and trained officials in over 50 nations. His efforts have helped shape major wildlife policies, and he has also played a key role in setting up protected areas and conservation organisations in India and beyond.
In India, Menon is the Founder and Executive Director of the Wildlife Trust of India (WTI). Under his leadership, WTI has carried out important projects like elephant corridor protection, anti-poaching efforts, and wildlife rescue and recovery programmes.
Internationally, Menon has held many important roles with the IUCN, including as Chair of the Asian Elephant Specialist Group and member of committees shaping global biodiversity goals. He has also written ten wildlife books, including the widely read Indian Mammals: A Field Guide.
Menon’s work has been recognised with several international awards such as the Clark R. Bavin Award, the Whitley Continuation Award, and the Freedom of the City of London in 2024.
His election as SSC Chair is a major step for diversity in conservation leadership, giving a stronger voice to Asia and the Global South in global species protection.
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