Insect populations are declining globally due to multiple stressors, including habitat loss, climate change, agriculture, and pollution. The Anthropocene era has led to the sixth mass extinction, with insects being particularly affected. While some insect populations are increasing, many are experiencing steep declines, especially in regions with high human activity. The symposium organized by the Entomological Society of America aimed to assess the state of insect population trends and identify major data gaps. The special issue of PNAS includes 11 papers that examine insect decline from various perspectives, including geographic, ecological, and sociological. The papers highlight the need for more comprehensive data and research to understand the drivers of insect decline and to develop effective conservation strategies. The decline of insects has significant ecological and economic consequences, as they play crucial roles in ecosystems, such as pollination, decomposition, and pest control. The stressors affecting insects include climate change, habitat loss, agriculture, and pollution. The complexity of these stressors makes it difficult to determine the exact causes of insect decline. However, the symposium and the special issue emphasize the importance of addressing these issues to protect insect biodiversity. The need for more research and data is urgent, as the decline of insects could have far-reaching consequences for ecosystems and human societies. The article also highlights the importance of community science and citizen initiatives in monitoring and conserving insect populations. The future of insect conservation requires a combination of scientific research, policy changes, and public awareness to mitigate the impacts of human activities on insect populations.Insect populations are declining globally due to multiple stressors, including habitat loss, climate change, agriculture, and pollution. The Anthropocene era has led to the sixth mass extinction, with insects being particularly affected. While some insect populations are increasing, many are experiencing steep declines, especially in regions with high human activity. The symposium organized by the Entomological Society of America aimed to assess the state of insect population trends and identify major data gaps. The special issue of PNAS includes 11 papers that examine insect decline from various perspectives, including geographic, ecological, and sociological. The papers highlight the need for more comprehensive data and research to understand the drivers of insect decline and to develop effective conservation strategies. The decline of insects has significant ecological and economic consequences, as they play crucial roles in ecosystems, such as pollination, decomposition, and pest control. The stressors affecting insects include climate change, habitat loss, agriculture, and pollution. The complexity of these stressors makes it difficult to determine the exact causes of insect decline. However, the symposium and the special issue emphasize the importance of addressing these issues to protect insect biodiversity. The need for more research and data is urgent, as the decline of insects could have far-reaching consequences for ecosystems and human societies. The article also highlights the importance of community science and citizen initiatives in monitoring and conserving insect populations. The future of insect conservation requires a combination of scientific research, policy changes, and public awareness to mitigate the impacts of human activities on insect populations.