London, 4 March 2026
The International Council for Game and Wildlife Conservation (CIC) is pleased to announce that the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust (GWCT) has joined as an NGO Member, reinforcing the scientific depth and practical conservation experience within the CIC’s international network.
GWCT becomes one of more than 90 NGO Members within the CIC’s global membership, which also includes 29 State Members. Founded in 1931, GWCT is widely respected for its long-term, evidence-based research into wildlife management, farmland biodiversity and habitat restoration across the United Kingdom. Its work consistently demonstrates how practical, science-led approaches to land and wildlife stewardship can deliver measurable biodiversity outcomes.
The objective of this collaboration is to support the work of GWCT internationally by utilising the CIC’s diplomatic reach, multilateral engagement and global membership. Through this partnership, GWCT’s research and communications expertise will contribute more directly to international policy discussions, while also opening avenues for potential joint projects, coordinated advocacy and collaborative research initiatives.
At the same time, the relationship reinforces strong cooperation within the United Kingdom, where both organisations are committed to promoting credible, evidence-driven conservation narratives.
Nick von Westenholz, Chief Executive of GWCT, commented:
“The challenges facing wildlife conservation require both sound science and effective communication. By joining the CIC, we look forward to contributing GWCT’s research and communications experience to international discussions and to building practical collaborations that benefit biodiversity and rural communities alike.”
Dr Francis Buner, Head of Wildlife Recovery at GWCT, will also contribute to the forthcoming CIC General Assembly in Vienna (April 16-19), where he will speak on small game management and the role of applied research in restoring farmland biodiversity. Nick von Westenholz will address the Assembly on science and communications, reflecting on the importance of clear, evidence-based messaging in shaping modern conservation policy.
Tristan Breijer, Director of Communications and Public Affairs at the CIC, added:
“GWCT brings scientific authority and a strong communications voice on the role of sustainable wildlife management. Through the CIC’s international platform, we can ensure that this expertise informs global conservation dialogue, while deepening cooperation here in the UK.”
The CIC unites governments, NGOs and practitioners worldwide to advance biodiversity conservation through cooperation, responsibility and sustainable use.
For More Information on the Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust please see: https://www.gwct.org.uk/
Media Contact:
Tristan Breijer MBA FRGS FRSA MCIJ
Director of Communications and Public Affairs
CIC – International Council for Game and Wildlife Conservation
Email: tristan.breijer@cic-wildlife.org
Mobile: +44 781 408 7423
Website: www.cic-wildlife.org
