This special issue commemorates the 20th anniversary of the creation of the Society for Conservation Biology's Social Science Working Group (SSWG). In these two decades, the SSWG has grown into a global, interdisciplinary professional community. Our membership represents close to 60 countries and offers a home to a diverse group of social scientists, natural scientists, and conservation practitioners. The SSWG has been instrumental in legitimising and mainstreaming the social sciences within SCB, elevating standards for conservation social sciences research and practice, and applying social science insights to conservation theory, practice, and policy. The special issue coincides with two other important recent milestones: the inaugural Conservation Social Science Conference, held online in November 2024; and the development of SSWG’s new strategic plan (2025-2030).