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New national organization in Brazil

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header: New National Organization in Brazil


On 31 December 1996, His Royal Highness The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, stepped down from the post of International President of WWF, which he has held since 1981. In fact His Royal Highness's involvement with WWF goes back 20 years beyond that, to the foundation of the organization in 1961. Then, he agreed to serve as President of WWF-UK. It was the start of what has proved to be nearly half a lifetimeÕs vigorous work for WWF.

At October's Annual Conference, Prince Philip spoke of some of the problems he has seen WWF face throughout those years. It is hard, he pointed out, to persuade individuals to think globally; it is hard to achieve cooperation between communities, governments, and vested interests; it is hard, always, to find the money.

But he spoke of progress too - in, for example, establishing protected areas and commercial stewardship schemes, and in banning wildlife trade. "There have been successes and failures, arguments and agreements, moments of hope and despair, but I have always felt that we are united in our one great ambition to care for, and to represent the interests of, that whole section of the living world which has no voice of its own."

In this endeavour, Prince Philip was never a mere figurehead. WWF has been the prime focus of his working life: he has spent more time on his work for the organization than on any of his other interests. As International President, His Royal Highness was Chairman of both the Board and the Executive Committee, which set WWF's worldwide policy and approve its international budgets.

In private life, as a keen wildlife photographer, Prince Philip knows how to keep his head down. But in public life, he has been seen and been heard to promote conservation issues worldwide at the highest governmental and corporate level. He has also given numerous public addresses, press conferences, and interviews on radio and television - scripting or writing his material himself. All this high-profile activity has been of inestimable value to WWF.

During this period, the Prince has found time to visit WWF projects in more than forty countries on five continents. In the field, he has helped with fundraising and 'awareness' promotion, and has kept a sharp eye on developments and progress.

In addition to his public activities, the Prince has worked tirelessly for the organization behind the scenes. Now, as President Emeritus, he will continue to give WWF the benefit of his support and experience.