Senior Environment Officer Linda Ruamoana represented the Cook Islands at the 38th Session of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) Man and the Biosphere (MAB) International Coordinating Council, held in Hernandarias, Paraguay, from 3–6 June 2026. The Cook Islands was the only Pacific Island country represented at the meeting, joining governments, scientists and environmental leaders from across the globe to discuss the future of biodiversity conservation and sustainable development.
Throughout the conference, countries shared how biosphere reserves are helping to protect biodiversity while supporting scientific research, education, cultural values and local livelihoods. Linda delivered a national intervention on behalf of the Cook Islands, highlighting the importance of youth engagement, international collaboration and knowledge sharing for Small Island Developing States. She also expressed the Cook Islands’ interest in learning from island and coastal biosphere reserves and how they successfully balance conservation with community wellbeing.
A conference highlight was a field visit to the Tekotopa area within the Itaipu Biosphere Reserve, where delegates experienced first-hand how conservation and community stewardship work together in practice. The visit included an opportunity to observe one of South America’s most iconic predators, the jaguar, a keystone species that plays an important role in maintaining healthy ecosystems by regulating wildlife populations and supporting biodiversity.
Reflecting on the experience, Linda said she was humbled by the genuine interest shown in the Cook Islands, with many delegates eager to learn more about our islands and unique environment. The conference provided a valuable opportunity to showcase the Cook Islands on the international stage, strengthen new partnerships, and explore how the principles of UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere Programme could help inform future conservation and sustainable development initiatives at home.
