September 29, 2026
Media Contact:
Jessica Brown
Managing Director, Media Relations
jbrown@conservation.org
ARLINGTON, Va. (Sept. 29, 2026) – Conservation International today welcomed the former President of Chile Gabriel Boric Font as the newest member of its Arnhold Distinguished Fellowship Program.
The Arnhold Distinguished Fellowship Program enlists world leaders to elevate the climate and conservation dialogue to the highest levels of government and industry, helping to create the political space for diplomacy and bold action to protect nature for people and promote peace.
As an Arnhold Distinguished Fellow, Boric will continue his longstanding focus on building a world that supports nature, people and livelihoods by supporting Conservation International’s work with local communities and regional, state and national governments.
During Gabriel Boric's presidency of Chile, significant progress was made on agreements and laws regarding climate change, such as the ratification of the Escazú Agreement, the creation of a new Biodiversity and Protected Areas Service, and the Framework Law on Climate Change. Previously, he served for eight years as a member of Chile’s Chamber of Deputies.
Boric will work to advance Conservation International’s commitment to protecting ocean and coastal ecosystems. He will support the implementation of Conservation International’s strategy to establish marine conservation on the high seas as the international community works to implement the High Seas Treaty. He will also contribute his political and diplomatic expertise to efforts aimed at achieving global conservation objectives under United Nations climate and biodiversity frameworks.
“During our administration, we were firmly convinced of the vital importance of protecting biodiversity and taking concrete action to address climate change. Joining Conservation International as an Arnhold Distinguished Fellow, offers an opportunity to build upon that work by promoting science-based solutions for nature and our communities, alongside experts from around the world,” said Former President Boric.
“It is an honor to welcome President Boric as an Arnhold Distinguished Fellow,” said Conservation International CEO Sebastian Troëng. “Former President Boric brings valuable, timely insights to some of the world’s most pressing nature conservation challenges, informed by his extensive experience and equal passion. His perspective will guide our global efforts to protect our oceans for the benefit of biodiversity, people and their livelihoods.”
Named for one of Conservation International’s most dedicated and beloved Board members, Henry Arnhold, the Arnhold Distinguished Fellowship Program was established in 2018 to honor his memory and lifelong dedication to peace, human rights and conservation.
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About Conservation International: Conservation International protects nature for the benefit of humanity. Through science, policy, fieldwork and finance, we spotlight and secure the most important places in nature for the climate, for biodiversity and for people. With offices in 30 countries and projects in more than 100 countries, Conservation International partners with governments, companies, civil society, Indigenous peoples and local communities to help people and nature thrive together. Visit Conservation.org for more, and follow us on Conservation News, Facebook, Twitter, TikTok, Instagram and YouTube.