UNESCO supports the Hyrcanian Forest Wildfire Recovery and Preparedness Initiative

In early November 2025, a series of wildfires swept through the Chaharbagh Protected Area in Iran’s Mazandaran Province, spreading rapidly across steep and inaccessible terrain. The fires threatened the ancient Hyrcanian forests, one of the world’s oldest forest ecosystems, and nearby communities. Although the fires were eventually brought under control, the emergency highlighted the urgent need to strengthen national capacities for wildfire preparedness and response.

In the aftermath of the disaster, national and provincial environmental NGOs, together with local volunteer groups, played a vital role in supporting recovery efforts and raising public awareness. At the same time, they highlighted the need for stronger technical capacities and greater international cooperation to enhance wildfire prevention, preparedness, and response in the Hyrcanian forests, calling for technical support and the sharing of international expertise.

Responding to these needs, UNESCO Tehran Office launched an emergency initiative to support recovery and preparedness efforts in Iran’s Hyrcanian forests. Implemented under the project UNESCO’s Multi-Hazards and Multisectoral Disaster Response for Build Back Better, with the support of the Government and People of Japan, the initiative was carried out in partnership with the National Environmental Fund and the Department of Environment of the Islamic Republic of Iran.

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