BUILDING ON THE KYOTO PROTOCOL: OPTIONS FOR PROTECTING THE CLIMATEDr Lendy Spires
An Architecture for Climate Protection Kevin A. Baumert and Nancy Kete Walls, windows, floors, and doors are some of the elements used in designing a house. Not just any mix of architectural elements will create a functional home.
Although there are many possible designs, making a home functional means assembling walls, windows, and other elements into a compatible whole that meets the needs of its inhabitants. So too, a climate protection treaty has its own set of “architectural elements” that must meet the needs of its stakeholders.
Elements of a climate protection treaty include provisions for controlling greenhouse gas emissions, man-aging economic costs, and promoting accountability, among other things. While the options for designing a home may seem limitless, the diversity of potentially effective climate agreements is not nearly as constrained as current international negotiations might lead us to believe.
As with homes, innovation and creativity are needed in treaty design. Since 1997, the debate over global climate change has focused narrowly on the Kyoto Protocol—an international treaty to control greenhouse gas emissions that are trapping heat in the Earth’s atmosphere.
The Protocol calls on industrialized countries to reduce their emissions of greenhouse gases by about 5 percent below 1990 levels between 2008 and 2012. Over the past 5 years, government officials, observers, and experts have been absorbed in the arcane details of the Protocol, arguing at great length about the treaty’s merits and demerits.
As the Kyoto Protocol comes to life, this debate will shift to include new ideas for future commitments to protect the global climate system. This volume explores a set of options for designing an international framework for climate protection “beyond Kyoto,” that is, beyond the Kyoto Protocol’s first commitment period.1 We pay special attention to achieving international cooperation across the so-called North-South divide.
These organizations - known at the UN as "non-governmental organizations" or "NGOs" - are often the most effective voices for the concerns of ordinary people .
Earth Focus Foundation, General presentation, Feb 2011maelguillemot
Global Design Seminars
Launching of the international programme
simultaneously in ten cities over four continents:
Antigua, Aurora, Barrie, Cape Town,
Chicago, Copenhagen, Geneva, Liverpool,
Sydney, Toronto
Part IV: Our Future is Worth It: How YOUth can take ACTION for Sustainable De...EOTO World
The final installment of the Rio+20 toolkit series that focuses on the concept of the Institutional Framework for Sustainable Development and how to use the Arts to spread the word!
Australia at Rio+20 Seminar Facilitator, Rosemary Sainty
Former Head, Secretariat UN Global Compact Network Australia and
Adviser, Corporate Engagement, Transparency Australia
BlindSpot Prince's Foundation net-positive circular economyJames Greyson
Sept 2013 Masterclass presentation and biochar making demo
40 years of global problem solving -> problems overall worse.
Mapping the solution space -> new category of solutions?
Positive development -> net positive impacts
Switch policy and practice -> reverse intractable problems?
Biochar, precycling, circular economy
How to Lobby at Intergovernmental MeetingsFelix Dodds
a power point used for a workshop at the December 2017 United Nations Environment Assembly by Felix Dodds and Jan Gustav Strandenaes on How to Lobby at Intergovernmental meetings. Training offered for staff of stakeholders
BUILDING ON THE KYOTO PROTOCOL: OPTIONS FOR PROTECTING THE CLIMATEDr Lendy Spires
An Architecture for Climate Protection Kevin A. Baumert and Nancy Kete Walls, windows, floors, and doors are some of the elements used in designing a house. Not just any mix of architectural elements will create a functional home.
Although there are many possible designs, making a home functional means assembling walls, windows, and other elements into a compatible whole that meets the needs of its inhabitants. So too, a climate protection treaty has its own set of “architectural elements” that must meet the needs of its stakeholders.
Elements of a climate protection treaty include provisions for controlling greenhouse gas emissions, man-aging economic costs, and promoting accountability, among other things. While the options for designing a home may seem limitless, the diversity of potentially effective climate agreements is not nearly as constrained as current international negotiations might lead us to believe.
As with homes, innovation and creativity are needed in treaty design. Since 1997, the debate over global climate change has focused narrowly on the Kyoto Protocol—an international treaty to control greenhouse gas emissions that are trapping heat in the Earth’s atmosphere.
The Protocol calls on industrialized countries to reduce their emissions of greenhouse gases by about 5 percent below 1990 levels between 2008 and 2012. Over the past 5 years, government officials, observers, and experts have been absorbed in the arcane details of the Protocol, arguing at great length about the treaty’s merits and demerits.
As the Kyoto Protocol comes to life, this debate will shift to include new ideas for future commitments to protect the global climate system. This volume explores a set of options for designing an international framework for climate protection “beyond Kyoto,” that is, beyond the Kyoto Protocol’s first commitment period.1 We pay special attention to achieving international cooperation across the so-called North-South divide.
These organizations - known at the UN as "non-governmental organizations" or "NGOs" - are often the most effective voices for the concerns of ordinary people .
Earth Focus Foundation, General presentation, Feb 2011maelguillemot
Global Design Seminars
Launching of the international programme
simultaneously in ten cities over four continents:
Antigua, Aurora, Barrie, Cape Town,
Chicago, Copenhagen, Geneva, Liverpool,
Sydney, Toronto
Part IV: Our Future is Worth It: How YOUth can take ACTION for Sustainable De...EOTO World
The final installment of the Rio+20 toolkit series that focuses on the concept of the Institutional Framework for Sustainable Development and how to use the Arts to spread the word!
Australia at Rio+20 Seminar Facilitator, Rosemary Sainty
Former Head, Secretariat UN Global Compact Network Australia and
Adviser, Corporate Engagement, Transparency Australia
BlindSpot Prince's Foundation net-positive circular economyJames Greyson
Sept 2013 Masterclass presentation and biochar making demo
40 years of global problem solving -> problems overall worse.
Mapping the solution space -> new category of solutions?
Positive development -> net positive impacts
Switch policy and practice -> reverse intractable problems?
Biochar, precycling, circular economy
How to Lobby at Intergovernmental MeetingsFelix Dodds
a power point used for a workshop at the December 2017 United Nations Environment Assembly by Felix Dodds and Jan Gustav Strandenaes on How to Lobby at Intergovernmental meetings. Training offered for staff of stakeholders
Remarks by Mr. Sha Zukang, Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs, Secretary-General of The 2012 UN Conference on Sustainable Development
Overview of the Conference. Josefina Maestu, Director of UN-Water Decade Programme on Advocacy and Communication (UNW-DPAC). International Annual UN-Water Zaragoza Conference 2012/2013. Preparing for the 2013 International Year. Water Cooperation: Making it Happen! 8-10 January 2013
Connecting Community Engagement to the United Nations’ Sustainable Developmen...Bonner Foundation
Connecting Community Engagement to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, Beth Blissman, NGO UN Representative, Loretto Community, 2017 Bonner Fall Directors and Coordinators Meeting
Sustainable Development Goals and Climate Change Felix Dodds
This is a presentation made at the UNC GREAT DECISIONS
an outreach program of the Foreign Policy Association - it can be seen online at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4miLnnVTH-Q and https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qirvqOPd_dA
Natural farming @ Dr. Siddhartha S. Jena.pptxsidjena70
A brief about organic farming/ Natural farming/ Zero budget natural farming/ Subash Palekar Natural farming which keeps us and environment safe and healthy. Next gen Agricultural practices of chemical free farming.
Micro RNA genes and their likely influence in rice (Oryza sativa L.) dynamic ...Open Access Research Paper
Micro RNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs molecules having approximately 18-25 nucleotides, they are present in both plants and animals genomes. MiRNAs have diverse spatial expression patterns and regulate various developmental metabolisms, stress responses and other physiological processes. The dynamic gene expression playing major roles in phenotypic differences in organisms are believed to be controlled by miRNAs. Mutations in regions of regulatory factors, such as miRNA genes or transcription factors (TF) necessitated by dynamic environmental factors or pathogen infections, have tremendous effects on structure and expression of genes. The resultant novel gene products presents potential explanations for constant evolving desirable traits that have long been bred using conventional means, biotechnology or genetic engineering. Rice grain quality, yield, disease tolerance, climate-resilience and palatability properties are not exceptional to miRN Asmutations effects. There are new insights courtesy of high-throughput sequencing and improved proteomic techniques that organisms’ complexity and adaptations are highly contributed by miRNAs containing regulatory networks. This article aims to expound on how rice miRNAs could be driving evolution of traits and highlight the latest miRNA research progress. Moreover, the review accentuates miRNAs grey areas to be addressed and gives recommendations for further studies.
Artificial Reefs by Kuddle Life Foundation - May 2024punit537210
Situated in Pondicherry, India, Kuddle Life Foundation is a charitable, non-profit and non-governmental organization (NGO) dedicated to improving the living standards of coastal communities and simultaneously placing a strong emphasis on the protection of marine ecosystems.
One of the key areas we work in is Artificial Reefs. This presentation captures our journey so far and our learnings. We hope you get as excited about marine conservation and artificial reefs as we are.
Please visit our website: https://kuddlelife.org
Our Instagram channel:
@kuddlelifefoundation
Our Linkedin Page:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/kuddlelifefoundation/
and write to us if you have any questions:
info@kuddlelife.org
Willie Nelson Net Worth: A Journey Through Music, Movies, and Business Venturesgreendigital
Willie Nelson is a name that resonates within the world of music and entertainment. Known for his unique voice, and masterful guitar skills. and an extraordinary career spanning several decades. Nelson has become a legend in the country music scene. But, his influence extends far beyond the realm of music. with ventures in acting, writing, activism, and business. This comprehensive article delves into Willie Nelson net worth. exploring the various facets of his career that have contributed to his large fortune.
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Introduction
Willie Nelson net worth is a testament to his enduring influence and success in many fields. Born on April 29, 1933, in Abbott, Texas. Nelson's journey from a humble beginning to becoming one of the most iconic figures in American music is nothing short of inspirational. His net worth, which estimated to be around $25 million as of 2024. reflects a career that is as diverse as it is prolific.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Humble Origins
Willie Hugh Nelson was born during the Great Depression. a time of significant economic hardship in the United States. Raised by his grandparents. Nelson found solace and inspiration in music from an early age. His grandmother taught him to play the guitar. setting the stage for what would become an illustrious career.
First Steps in Music
Nelson's initial foray into the music industry was fraught with challenges. He moved to Nashville, Tennessee, to pursue his dreams, but success did not come . Working as a songwriter, Nelson penned hits for other artists. which helped him gain a foothold in the competitive music scene. His songwriting skills contributed to his early earnings. laying the foundation for his net worth.
Rise to Stardom
Breakthrough Albums
The 1970s marked a turning point in Willie Nelson's career. His albums "Shotgun Willie" (1973), "Red Headed Stranger" (1975). and "Stardust" (1978) received critical acclaim and commercial success. These albums not only solidified his position in the country music genre. but also introduced his music to a broader audience. The success of these albums played a crucial role in boosting Willie Nelson net worth.
Iconic Songs
Willie Nelson net worth is also attributed to his extensive catalog of hit songs. Tracks like "Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain," "On the Road Again," and "Always on My Mind" have become timeless classics. These songs have not only earned Nelson large royalties but have also ensured his continued relevance in the music industry.
Acting and Film Career
Hollywood Ventures
In addition to his music career, Willie Nelson has also made a mark in Hollywood. His distinctive personality and on-screen presence have landed him roles in several films and television shows. Notable appearances include roles in "The Electric Horseman" (1979), "Honeysuckle Rose" (1980), and "Barbarosa" (1982). These acting gigs have added a significant amount to Willie Nelson net worth.
Television Appearances
Nelson's char
Characterization and the Kinetics of drying at the drying oven and with micro...Open Access Research Paper
The objective of this work is to contribute to valorization de Nephelium lappaceum by the characterization of kinetics of drying of seeds of Nephelium lappaceum. The seeds were dehydrated until a constant mass respectively in a drying oven and a microwawe oven. The temperatures and the powers of drying are respectively: 50, 60 and 70°C and 140, 280 and 420 W. The results show that the curves of drying of seeds of Nephelium lappaceum do not present a phase of constant kinetics. The coefficients of diffusion vary between 2.09.10-8 to 2.98. 10-8m-2/s in the interval of 50°C at 70°C and between 4.83×10-07 at 9.04×10-07 m-8/s for the powers going of 140 W with 420 W the relation between Arrhenius and a value of energy of activation of 16.49 kJ. mol-1 expressed the effect of the temperature on effective diffusivity.
"Understanding the Carbon Cycle: Processes, Human Impacts, and Strategies for...MMariSelvam4
The carbon cycle is a critical component of Earth's environmental system, governing the movement and transformation of carbon through various reservoirs, including the atmosphere, oceans, soil, and living organisms. This complex cycle involves several key processes such as photosynthesis, respiration, decomposition, and carbon sequestration, each contributing to the regulation of carbon levels on the planet.
Human activities, particularly fossil fuel combustion and deforestation, have significantly altered the natural carbon cycle, leading to increased atmospheric carbon dioxide concentrations and driving climate change. Understanding the intricacies of the carbon cycle is essential for assessing the impacts of these changes and developing effective mitigation strategies.
By studying the carbon cycle, scientists can identify carbon sources and sinks, measure carbon fluxes, and predict future trends. This knowledge is crucial for crafting policies aimed at reducing carbon emissions, enhancing carbon storage, and promoting sustainable practices. The carbon cycle's interplay with climate systems, ecosystems, and human activities underscores its importance in maintaining a stable and healthy planet.
In-depth exploration of the carbon cycle reveals the delicate balance required to sustain life and the urgent need to address anthropogenic influences. Through research, education, and policy, we can work towards restoring equilibrium in the carbon cycle and ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.
WRI’s brand new “Food Service Playbook for Promoting Sustainable Food Choices” gives food service operators the very latest strategies for creating dining environments that empower consumers to choose sustainable, plant-rich dishes. This research builds off our first guide for food service, now with industry experience and insights from nearly 350 academic trials.
2. Felix Dodds Jan Gustav Strandenaes
• Felix Dodds is an Adjunct Professor at the University of North
Carolina and an Associate Fellow at the Tellus Institute. He was co-
director of the 2014 & 2018 Nexus Conference on Water, Food,
Energy and Climate.
• Felix was the Executive Director of Stakeholder Forum for a
Sustainable Future (1992-2012). He has been active at the UN
since 1990 and has advised the Danish, UK Governments & EU
• From 1997-2001 he co-chaired the UN Commission on Sustainable
Development NGO Steering Committee.
• He has coordinated some of the most innovative stakeholder
dialogues Bonn Water (2001), Energy (2004), Nexus (2011).
• In 2011 he chaired the United Nations DPI 64th NGO conference -
'Sustainable Societies Responsive Citizens’. The first meeting to put
forward a set of sustainable development goals
• He has written or edited eighteen books the latest is Stakeholder
Democracy and his first comic Santa’s Green Christmas: Father
Christmas battles Climate Change
• This years major project the Bigfoot SDG Adventure
• Follow me on www.blog.felixdodds.net and my web site is
www.felixdodds.net Twitter @felixdodds
2
• Jan-Gustav Strandenaes is senior adviser on governance to Pure Consulting
in Norway and an Associate with Stakeholder Forum. Pure Consulting is a
central and trendsetting company in Norway working on the SDGs and
advising authorities, national and at municipal level, the private sector and
civil society on the 2030 agenda.
• After his first assignments for the UN in Latin America in the 70’s, Jan-Gustav
has worked and lived in Botswana, Uganda, the US and Sweden in addition
to Norway.
• Between 1985 and 2005, Jan-Gustav reorganised, coordinated and helped
build as working Chair of the Board in a development-environment NGO
(Utviklingsfondet) in Norway from scratch to be one of the largest ones in
Norway with projects in more than 20 countries in the developing world and
a total turnover of some 15 US million dollars. While working there he also
helped to establish the Rainforest Alliance, today a major handler of UNREDD
programmes. From 2001 to 2011 he served as the Organising Partner for the
Major Groups at CSD in New York.
• In 1983-85 Jan-Gustav lived in Botswana, working for the Norwegian Aid
Agency, NORAD, under the auspices of the Norwegian Foreign Office. While
there he was commissioned to write an early study of the carrying capacity of
Botswana, that among others was discussed during an intergovernmental
conference on the environment in 1984.
• During 2003-04 he served as a Norwegian diplomat with the Norwegian
embassy in Kampala, Uganda, having a special portfolio to work with and
develop relations with NGOs/civil society there with a particular focus on
governance structures.
• In 2017, he was appointed by the German Government to be a member of a n
international peer group to assess and analyse the official German National
Strategy on Sustainable Development handed over to Chancellor Merkel and
the German government in 2018.
• Jan-Gustav has authored several articles and books on the environment,
sustainable development and the UN, taught about the UN for three decades,
has crossed the Kalahari desert in an old Land Rover, and lives in Norway
3. Today what we will cover
• Handbook for Stakeholder Engagement in
UNEA
• A little on MEAs
• NGOs and other stakeholders
• Why attend UN meetings – some case studies
• SWOT and other tools
• National preparation
• Understanding the countries, bureau and
secretariat
• What to do at the UN meetings
• Media
• SDG Landscape
• Summary
3
5. Civil Society Engagement at UN Environment:
Basis for Engagement
• ECOSOC Resolution 1996/31 on Consultative relationship between
the United Nations and non-governmental organizations
• Rio+20 Outcome Document “The Future We Want”: “ensure the
active participation of all relevant stakeholders drawing on best
practices and models from relevant multilateral institutions and
exploring new mechanisms to promote transparency and the
effective engagement of civil society”
• Rule 70 of the Rules of Procedure of the United Nations
Environment Assembly
8. Accreditation with UN Environment
• Consultative Status with UN Environment
• Criteria:
1. Registered Non-governmental organization
2. Not-for profit
3. In existence for at least 2 years
4. Interest in the field of environment
5. International scope
For more information:
https://www.unenvironment.org/civil-society-engagement/accreditation
9. Accredited Organizations at meetings of the United Nations
Environment Assembly and its subsidiary bodies
•Accredited organizations only, reserved seats for the
nine Major Groups
•Opportunity for written and oral interventions
•Accredited organizations receive relevant
documentation and have access to the CPR portal
•Interactive online participation
10. Major Groups Engagement at UN Environment
Major Group Facilitating Committee (elected by
accredited organizations for a 2 year term)
Facilitate Major Group and Stakeholder Engagement
with UN Environment
Major Group
representatives (2
representatives per
major group, total of
18)
Regional facilitators (2
representatives per region,
total of 12)
Observer status
11. Resources
• ECOSOC Resolution: https://goo.gl/nyiDjt
• Update on Stakeholder Engagement to CPR and UNEA
Bureaus: https://goo.gl/6Lh2L1
• Resources for Major Groups: https://goo.gl/E85DAS
• Accreditation: https://goo.gl/nUrT8H
• Stakeholder Engagement Handbook: https://goo.gl/cg3mtS
• Regional consultative meeting African and AMCEN Conference:
http://wedocs.unep.org/bitstream/handle/20.500.11822/26012/Af
rica_AMCEN_UNEA.pdf?sequence=1&isAllowed=y;
https://www.unenvironment.org/events/conference/african-
ministerial-conference-environment
14. Multilateral Agreements
Synonyms
Legally binding and non-legally binding agreements come in many shapes and forms .
Legally binding Non-legally binding
Treaties Accords Resolutions
Conventions Pacts Decisions
Agreements Charters Declarations
Protocols Recommendations
Amendments
14
15. How does a multilateral agreement enter into force internationally
• Adoption: Upon finalising the negotiation of text, a treaty will be first “adopted.
• Signature: A country begins a process of endorsing a treaty by “signing” it.This action is at
times called “Signature Subject to Ratification, Acceptance or Approval.”
• Ratification, acceptance, or approval: Action by which a nation specifies its assent to being
bound by the treaty after completion of required national constitutional procedures for
ratification or accession or approval depending upon the country’s legal system.
• Entry into force: Normally, multilateral treaties enter into force after an established period
has elapsed subsequent to a set number of nations ratifying or acceding to the agreement.
Some agreements have other terms that must be met so that it enters into force.
• Accession: This is the act by which a nation accepts to become a party to an agreement
whose text has been negotiated, adopted and signed by other countries.
• Withdrawal or denouncing: Countries can (and do) withdraw or denounce themselves from
some international agreements in accordance with the procedure set in that instrument.
15
16. Designation of documents
-/INF/ Information series
-/L… Limited distribution, generally of draft
documents
-/NGO/ Statements by NGOs
-/CONF/ Conference
-/WG… Working Group
-/PC… Preparatory Committee
-/RES/ Resolutions
-/SR… Summary of meetings
-/TP… Technical Papers
-/WP… Working Papers
-/Add… Addendum
-
/Amend
…
Amendment to the document
-/Corr… Corrigendum (i.e., an error to be
corrected or reorganization of the
text)
-/Rev… Revision (supersedes a previously
issued document)
16
The final letters indicate the number sequence 1, 2, 3 etc. or a modification of the
document:
‘Non-papers’ will also be distributed informally during sessions to facilitate negotiations.
These usually contain proposed text amendments from government negotiators.
18. Defining Non-Governmental Organisations with JG
How do you describe an NGO? One survey found 48 different
terms and acronyms. Here is a sample:
In short, there is no agreed terminology for describing the NGO sector.
In some ways, it is easier to describe what NGOs are not, rather than what
they are. It is generally agreed that NGOs are not:
• part of government, or
• organized primarily for private profit.
BINGOs Big International NGOs
BONGOs Business Organized NGOs
CBOs Community Based Organizations
CSOs Civil Society Organizations
ENGOs Environmental NGOs
GONGOs Government Organized NGOs
MONGO
IPOs Indigenous Peoples Organizations
GROs Grassroots Organizations
GSCOs Global Social Change
Organizations
NPOs Nonprofit Organizations
Vos Voluntary Organizations
NGI
18
19. Stakeholder engagement in the UN -WITH JG
WIT
H JG
1992 Earth Summit
Agenda 21 the first UN document to give ‘rights
and responsibilities for stakeholders to engage in
the development and implementation of the UN
Action Plan.
There were nine chapters representing different
sectors of society which were called ‘Major Groups’
1. Youth and Children
2. NGOs
3. Women
4. Indigenous Peoples
5. Local Authorities
6. Trade Unions
7. Business and Industry
8. Science andTechnological Community
9. Role of Farmers
20. Definitions and players JG
• Stakeholders:Those impacted by a decision
or impact on a decision - it enables a unique
space for each stakeholder group
• Social movements: are a type of group
action.They are large, sometimes informal,
groupings of individuals or organizations
which focus on specific political or social
issues. In other words, they carry out, resist, or
undo a social change.
• Civil society: is the "aggregate of non-
governmental organizations and institutions
that manifest interests and will of citizens. It
excludes Indigenous Peoples, Academics,
Local Government, Foundations etc and
aggregates views of others as opposed to
enabling them to have their own space
• Global citizenship: defines a person who
places their identity with a "global community"
above their identity as a citizen of a particular
nation or place.
• The idea is that one’s identity transcends
geography or political borders and that the
planetary human community is
interdependent and whole; humankind is
essentially one
20
21. NGOs, civil society, or stakeholders and major groups? JG
“Major Groups” is a term that was
introduced in Agenda 21, agreed by
governments at the Rio Earth
Summit. It describes nine sectors of
society identified as having a
significant role in sustainable
development:
1. Women
2. Children and youth
3. Indigenous people
4. NGOs (Civil Society Organizations)
5. Local authorities
6. Workers and trade unions
7. Business and industry
8. The scientific and technical community (Research &
Academia)
9. Farmers
10.Grass roots organizations
11.Parliamentarians
12.Foundations and philanthropies
13.Professionals
14.Media
15.Older Persons
21
22. Rio+5 & the Commission on Sustainable Development 1997-2001
22
1996 the UN General Assembly agreed that
at Rio+5 each of the nine major groups would
have half a day to present on what they are
doing to implement Agenda 21
1998-2001 – two days of the Commission on
Sustainable Development (4 sessions of 3
hours – 12 hours in total) were given over to
a multi-stakeholder dialogue with member
states which drew experience on what has
happening on implementing Agenda 21 and
what policy changes might be needed to
enhance implementation
24. Stakeholders in Intergovernmental Processes JG
FOUR important
functions:
• Setting agendas
• Negotiating outcomes
• Conferring legitimacy
• Implementing solutions
24
25. Setting Agendas – Example 1: Rio+20 – the Donostia Declaration
2006 President Mbeki
2007 President Lula
2008 Stakeholder Forum IAB ask SF to lead on
Rio+20
2008 – September G77 call for a Rio+20
2008 – November Donostia Declaration
• Green Economy
• Emerging Issues
• Institutional Framework for sustainable
development
2009 – February Ri0+20 dinner
2009 – Feb-August campaign in European and US
capitals
2009 – October workshop with Member States
25
26. Setting Agendas Example 2: Sustainable Development Goals
•May 2011 UNDG Develop a more
comprehensive idea to replace the MDGs
•July 2011 Colombia suggest SDGs at meeting
in Solo Indonesia
•September 2011 The UN DPI NGO Conference
proposed 17 SDGs
•October 2011 UNDESA Briefs for Rio+20 pick
up the DPI NGO Suggestions
•November 2011 Colombia host government
retreat in Bogota – main document given out
to governments is the DPI NGO outcome
document
26
27. Negotiating Outcomes Example 1: Habitat II (1996)
•Informals in Paris treat stakeholders at the
same level as governments
•Text entered into the negotiations become
alive if a government picks it up
•Joint government-stakeholder text
suggestions
•This practice continues at Habitat II in Istanbul
•The NGO suggested amendments come out
as an official UN information document for the
first time
27
28. Negotiating outcomes Example 2: Anti-biotic resistance
• Never give up example – anti biotic resistance
• SDG OWG – Sweden only promoter
• April 2014 WHO Report comes out saying that millions of
people will be impacted
• July 2014 UK government commissioned the review on
Antimicrobial Resistance sets
• July 2014 push for UK to join the call at SDG-OWG – using
parliamentarians
• September 2014 USA launch their national strategy for
combating Antibiotic Resistance
• NO target on Antimicrobial Resistance
• July 2015 last INC negotiations
• Para 26 “we will equally accelerate the pace of progress made
in fighting …including by addressing growing anti-microbial
resistance”
28
29. Negotiating outcomes Example 3:
Providing Content and influencing the system JG
• By always being present, and always providing substantive and
relevant input, the network of NGOs working on chemical issues,
IPEN, helped create SAICEM, Strategic Approach
to International Chemicals Management (SAICM) is a policy
framework to promote chemical safety around the world.Which is
part of UNEP
• IPEN also helped develop the Minamata Convention on mercury
• After providing substantive and relevant input in refugee matters,
UNOCHA and UNAIDS now have representatives of NGOs at the
highest level
• Greenpeace provided substantive input on the ocean’s chapter in
the Rio+20 Outcome document
29
This
Photo by
Unknown
Author is
licensed
under CC
BY-SA-
NC
30. Conferring Legitimacy: Commission on Sustainable Development JG
• 1992 NGOs and G77 create CSD
• 2003 – two year cycle
• 2005 Reform of the CSD first raised
• 2007 CSD for first time doesn’t agree any policy
(it did the same in 2011)
• UNDESA paper by SF on institutional framework
for Sustainable Development tabled a UN Council
on Sustainable Development (July 2011)
• Stakeholders made it clear that the CSD had to
be reformed at the CSD in 2010 (June) and 2011
(June) and the DPI NGO Conference 2011
(September)
30
31. Implementing Solutions in Partnerships JG
• The Global Alliance ForVaccines And
Immunization (Gavi): increasing the numbers
vaccinated but less successful influencing
vaccine pricing.
• The Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI):
Launched byWHO in 1998 at theWorld Health
Assembly – Objective to eradicate Polio by 2000;
today polio reduced by 99% globally.
• The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC): 8% of
global forest is certified and 25% of all industrial
round-wood production.
31
32. UNEP Structure JG
• United Nations Environment Assembly every 2 years.
• UNEA replaced the UNEP Governing Council (a 58-
member body founded in 1972) and the former Global
Ministerial Environment Forum from 1999.
• UNEA is the central governing body of UNEP, has
universal membership. Its functions are it:
sets the priorities for global environmental policy,
advises the UN system on environmental policy issues,
Identifies new environmental challenges, examines
existing practices,
organises dialogues with Major Groups and Stakeholders
promotes partnerships on environment and mobilise
resources.
This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC
BY-SA
33. The Committee of Permanent Representatives
(CPR), is part of the UNEP structure JG
• The Committee of Permanent Representatives
(CPR), the permanent subsidiary body of
UNEA, comprises representatives from
countries accredited (embassies) in Nairobi,
• CPR monitors the work of UNEP between
UNEA sessions, advises UNEA and stimulate
programme-related discussions
• CPR with representatives from capitals and
stakeholder groups holds a preparatory
meeting every two years in the run-up to the
UNEA session.
34. UNEP Management Structure JG
• UNEP has an Executive Office, a leadership level and the
following seven main divisions:
Communications Division
Economy Division
Ecosystems Division
Law Division
Science Division
Policy and Programme Division
Corporate Services Division
• UNEP also has six regional offices for Africa, Asia and
Pacific, Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean, North
America, and West Asia,
• The basis for UNEP activities is the Medium-Term Strategy,
which always covers a period of four years and sets out
priorities and goals with indicators and expected results
This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-SA
36. How to put together a lobbying strategy
1. Goal and Objectives: Agreeing what your overall Goal is and your objectives -
these might include broad objectives such as increasing awareness of your issue.
2. Research: Researching material to help develop your position
3. Policy position: Develop the particular policy position
4. Mapping: Mapping out:
• Which other organizations supports your position.
• Which organizations oppose your position
• Which policy makers you need to influenced and the relationship they
have to you
eg on a 1 to 5 where 1 being well known to you Policymakers are
typically government officials or people with formal political power
(e.g., parliamentarians, ministers or agency officials, and their staff)
• Which policy makers are against your position
36
37. SWOT analysis
Strengths
a. What is the unique nature
of the campaign?
b. What does the team do
well?
c. What do other people see
as your strengths?
Weaknesses
a. What can you improve?
b. What are your resource
limitations?
c. What do you do badly?
d. How do others perceive your
campaign?
e. Do you know what all the key
governments think of your
campaign?
37
38. SWOT analysis (cont.)
Opportunities
a. Where is the campaign’s support?
b. What academic evidence is there
in support of your campaign?
c. What are the key media chances
you could utilise in the future to
support your campaign?
d. Who is seeing key government
officials in the short term
Threats
a. What are the obstacles facing the
campaign?
b. What funds do you have to
support the campaign?
c. What are the views of other
stakeholders?
d. Which of the key country blocks
oppose your campaign?
38
39. 39
Economy
RecessionGrowth
Political Will
High
Low
• EU approach very positive
• US does not block
• G77 approaches positively
• Business engages positively
• Stakeholders engage
positively
- NEW DEAL
• EU approach positive
• US not engaged
• G77 approaches positively
• Business does not block
• Stakeholders engage apologist
- DELAY
EU approach less positive
US does no interest
G77 gives up sustainable
development
Business is obstructive
Stakeholders slam
conference as a failure
- SUSTAINABLE
DEVELOPMENT DISPLACED
• EU approach less positive
• US blocks
• G77 replay failures of the last
ten years
• Business not interested
• Stakeholders criticise
STATUS QUO
41. National Preparations What CanYou Do? With JG
• What do you want?
• What does the text that is being negotiated say?
• Are you working with other groups who are engaged in the
UN process?
• If not.Why not?
• Have a briefing paper no longer than two pages
• Have some paragraphs ready
• Know the government officials in charge in capital and
meet with them
• Utilize parliament to raise the issue to the Minister
• Write article/articles for national newspaper
• Town Hall Meetings – Citizens Charter
• Follow up – start a conversation with government on what
you want in the follow up now – do you have projects to
implement
41
43. Understanding the countries
• European Union Romania (Jan-June 19), Finland (July- Dec 19)
• G77 (134) and China Chair: Ecuador (http://www.g77.org/ )
Palestine (2019)
• Key G77 countries: Argentina, Brazil, Bolivia, Colombia, China,
Cuba, Egypt, Guatemala, India, Indonesia, Kenya, Nigeria,
Pakistan, Singapore, South Africa,Tanzania
• Key EU 27 countries: Denmark, Germany, France, Czech
Republic (President of ECOSOC), Netherlands, Sweden, Slovak
Republic (President of UNGA)
• Single decision countries: eg Australia, Canada, Japan, Korea,
Mexico, New Zealand, Norway, Monaco, Russia, Switzerland,
Ukraine United States,
• AOSIS (43 countries) Bureau Ahmed Sareer (Chair) from the
Maldives; Mahe ’Uli’uli SandhurstTupouniua fromTonga; and
LoisYoung from Belize.
43
44. Understanding the countries, ECOSOC and the PGA
• Regional Blocks
• Africa (chair Egypt 2019) (54) UNGA President 4 and 9 Uganda (2014 and 2019) Mr.
Sam Kutesa (2014) 2019???
• Asia (53) UNGA President 1 and 6) Fiji (2016) PeterThompson
• Latin America and the Caribbean (33) UNGA President 3 and 8 Ecuador Ms. María
Fernanda Espinosa Garcés (2018)
• Eastern Europe (23) UNGA President 2 and 7 Slovak Republic (2017) Miroslav Lajčák
• Western Europe and Other Group (28) UNGA President 00 and 05 – Denmark (2015)
Presidents of UNGA
• 2019 actual Heads of State HLPF Heads of State HLPF (Africa) Nigeria?? Morocco??
President of ECOSOC
President of the ECOSOC is Inga Rhonda King, Permanent Representative of Saint Vincent and the
Grenadines
44
45. The Bureau
• The Bureau plays a critical role in managing the process.
They can guide the direction of the negotiations
through the structuring of the text and the inclusion
in first drafts of certain ideas and then control the text
as it moves to agreement.
Bureau members are in touch with thinking in the
different groups and discussing ideas with them
You should find out who the Bureau members are
and meet with them well before the relevant meeting.
An early visit to NewYork before the UN meeting to
meet Bureau members, key government
representatives in the Missions and the UN Secretariat
is well worth doing.
Share your positions with Bureau members if they are
sympathetic to your views.
45
46. UN Secretariat
• For any UN process the Secretariat will play a critical
role.This will include:
• Analysing the national, regional and thematic
reports.
• Preparing the background documents and zero
draft.
• They can be asked to produce negotiating text
arising from the discussions.
• Making available all official documents.
• Servicing the negotiations.
• Producing or updating a website for the meeting.
• Producing promotional material for the meeting.
• Accrediting stakeholders.
46
47. Understanding the agenda & the magnetism of the microphone JG
• What kind of conference and meeting
are you at?
• What will be the outcome document?
Its status?
• Which are the important elements of
the agenda?
Do they deal with resolutions? If so
your topics?
Work programmes?
Access issues?
Budgets?
• Are you aware of background papers
and what they say?
• Who authored these papers?
• How do you address the agenda
issues?
In plenary?
In contact groups?
In friends groups?
Over coffee?
Only with your own kind?
47
48. What to do at UN
meetings
www.blog.felixdodds.net
48
49. ATypical Day – with JG
8-9:00 a.m. Individual Government delegations will usually meet internally
to prepare their own country lobbying position and to review the previous day.
Stakeholder morning sessions
9-10:00 a.m. Governments will usually attend meetings of the relevant groupings they are members
of, e.g., G77 or European Union. NGOs and other stakeholders will also usually hold
their consultations to prepare for the day.
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Meeting sessions.
1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Lunch time – side events, an opportunity to spend time with government officials.
Sometimes, if the venue is difficult to access, Stakeholders may hold their own
consultations over lunch (try to avoid this if possible).
3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Meeting sessions (additional sessions will be added when they are needed, often into
the night or even through the night).
6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Side Events can also be held at this time.
49
50. Before the meeting
Government Strong
For
Weak
For
Not yet
declared
Weak
Against
Strong
Against
Capital
New York
Other
Venues
For key governments
50
51. The world of brackets
• Alternative brackets
• Contentious brackets
• Suspicious brackets
• Tactical or trading brackets
• Uncertain brackets
• Waiting brackets
• Weary brackets
51
52. Brackets
Who put the bracket in?
When you know who put
it forward, ask why.
The ‘why’ may not be
clear to other delegations
and you can play an
important role in
highlighting the ‘why’ in
your lobbying.
52
53. :
Why have they bracketed?
• If it was because they are waiting for instructions from the capital, then phone
your colleagues in the capital and get them to raise the issue with relevant
civil servants or ministers.This only works if you are completely on top of the
negotiations and can act immediately.
• If it involves trading brackets with somewhere else in the text, then you need
to be able to work with the stakeholders who are trying to lobby on that
section.
• If it is because of exhaustion brackets, then make some text suggestions.
This can be a very opportunistic time as officials are tired and looking for a
way through the darkness – or even to go home for the night!
• If there are suspicious brackets, then it is important to work out why and try
to help build trust.
53
54. Why go on a government delegation?
• You will have access to the brief of your country;
• You may be able to sit in on delegation meetings within
blocks;
• You may be able to sit in on delegation meetings between
blocks;
• You will be able to push for the NGO or stakeholder
position during the appropriate meetings of the
delegation;
• You can be asked to act as the intermediary between the
NGOs and the government;
• You will be aware of where there is possible movement in
a negotiation and may be asked to draft text for your
delegation to put forward;
• You will be able to cultivate relationships with the
delegation for future work.
54
55. The downside of being on a delegation
• If you do join a government delegation you will lose some
independence. Some governments will require NGOs on a
delegation to sign an official document saying they will not
divulge what they have heard in delegation meetings;
• You will have limited time available for being with other NGOs
if you are an active member of the delegation;
• You may be seen as the doorkeeper for NGOs with the
delegation;
• You may be viewed as having ‘switched sides’ and joined the
government team more than what is expected;
• You may not be allowed to speak publicly on a position – if you
find this something that you cannot agree to, do not join a
delegation or resign when it becomes difficult for you. Some
delegations allow their NGOs to speak but they just have to first
ask the Head of delegations permission.
55
56. What participation and influence mechanisms should
stakeholders employ ?
Game plan for the whole negotiation – Coalition should be asking national
partners to before you arrive at a UN meeting
organize several meeting in capitals with key governments
brief the media, place early stories in the media
Meet with key parliamentarians/ representatives of your national body
before leaving – initiated a debate in parliament
Set up a rapid response mechanism in the capital in case you need it
Try to get an NGOs on delegation and allowed to attend pre inter-
departmental meetings before the event
56
57. What participation and influence mechanisms should you employ ?
At the UN event a coalition/stakeholder should:
have a photo booklet of key negotiators and UN
staff so they are easy to find www.iisd.ca
Designate point contacts for all key people eg G77,
EU, US, key countries, Bureau members, UN
officials (Bella)
There should be floor managers in each negotiation
room
Use coffee bar diplomacy, receptions
Use any informal possibilities drinks/dinner/dancing
If you are spending more than 20% of your time
with other Stakeholders you are not doing your
job.
57
58. UNEA 4 Bureau and CPR Chair
58
Siim Kiisler,Minister
of Environment of
Estonia
Ms. Nomvula Mokonyane
Vice President and Minister of
Environment Affairs of the
Republic of South Africa
Jacques Denis Tsanga
Vice President Minister of
Waters,Forest, SDGs
Republic of Gabon
H.E. Mr. Molwyn Joseph
Vice President and Minister of
Health and the Environment of
Antigua and Barbuda
Mr. Kimmo Tiilikainen
Vice President and Minister of
the Environment, Energy and
Housing of Finland
Felix Wertli
Vice President Head of
Global Affairs, Switzerland
H.E. Mr. Vladislav Smrž, Vice
President and Deputy Minister
of the Ministry of the
Environment of the Czech
Republic
H.E. Dr.
Naser Moghaddasi
Vice President Deputy
Head od Department of
Environment the Islamic
Republic of Iran
H.E. Mrs. Francisca Ashietey-
Odunton
Chair, High Commissioner and
Permanent Representative of
Ghana.
59. Key UNEP Staff
59
Joyce Msuya
UNEP Deputy Executive
Director
Inger Andersen
UNEP Executive Director
Satya Tripathi appointed as UNEP
Assistant Secretary General and Head of
New York Office
Jorge Laguna-Celis
Director, Governance Affairs
Office
Gary Lewis
Director, Programme and
Policy Division
Elizabeth Mrema
Director, Law Division
Susan Gardner
Director, Ecosystems Division
Ligia Noronha
Director, Economy Division
60. What levers of influence do they have in the negotiation stages ?
Much less as the process moves to end game
Offer to support smaller states eg FIELD helped AOSIS in the climate change negotiations
Organize side events
Talking with your own government daily
Be there until 4am to offer text changes
Key G77 countries: For G77 Egypt, Palestine, Nigeria, India, Pakistan Kenya and Colombia,
Argentina, Brazil, Bolivia, Chad, Colombia, Chile, China, Cuba, Ecuador, Egypt, Fiji, Guatemala, India, Indonesia,
Kenya, Nigeria, Pakistan, Singapore, Senegal, South Africa,Tanzania, UEA
Key EU countries: Romania, Finland, Denmark, Germany, Netherlands, Sweden, France,
Czech Republic
Single decision countries: eg Australia, Canada, Japan, Korea, Mexico, New Zealand, Norway,
Monaco, Russia, Switzerland, Ukraine, United States,
60
61. WHAT NOTTO DO (AT A MEETING) JG
• Do not go up to a government when they are
speaking
• Do not sit in a government seat – unless you are on
that government’s delegation
• Do not interrupt the meeting
• Do not target a government in your intervention
• Do not wear inappropriate clothes
• Do not do a demonstration inside the venue
• Do not take a countries flag/name
• Do not deviate from your message when you are
speaking as a representative of the caucus
61
63. Traditional Media
Traditional media tends to be one way
where you read an article, listen to a radio
programme or watch a TV news item. You
have a very limited range of engagement
with traditional media you can write a letter
to the editor and sometimes join a phone in
for a radio programme.
• Press releases
• News items
• Fact sheets for the media
• Video news releases
• Opinion articles – which could be
syndicated
• Editorials
63
64. Social Media
Social News: Twitter, Digg, Propeller, Reddit. Interact by
short messaging, voting for articles and commenting on
them.
Social Networking: Facebook, Google Plus, LinkedIn (which
now enables blog placements too) Hi5, Last.FM, MySpace.
Interaction by adding friends and colleagues, commenting on
profiles, joining groups and having discussions.
Social Photo andVideo Sharing: YouTube, Pinterest, Flickr.
Interact by sharing photos or videos and commenting on user
submissions.
Wikis: Wikipedia, Wikia. Interact by adding articles and
editing existing articles.
Website: Easily accessible explaining what you are doing
Blogging : A regular blog posting where you share the
responsibility to do this over the year – possibly with a blog
every month to start with.
E-newsletters –These now can be created very easily
working with others generating content
64
65. Lets recap why you are attending UN meetings? JG
• To influence the text that will be
negotiated;
• To build and cultivate alliances for
future work;
• To show case studies of successes that
your organization has achieved;
• To learn about how intergovernmental
negotiations work;
• To raise funds for your work.
65
67. From environment to sustainable development JG
1972 1987 1992 2000 2015
UNEP The Brundtland
Commission and
sustainable
development
UNCED and
Agenda 21; the
Commission for
Sustainable
Development
The Millennium
Declaration and
the MDGs
Rio+20, (2012)The
Future WeWant
The 2030 agenda
and the 17 SDGs
Environment and
environment
protection
Sustainable
development and
an explicit
reference to the
future
Development
trumps
environment, the
27 Rio principles
are an effort to
build SD; the
precautionary
principle;
Polluter pays
The 8 MDGs,
environment is
weak and
subservient to
Development.The
MDGs is a
development
agenda
Finally there is an
action plan and a
framework for a
totally integrated
sustainable
development
paradigm
68. Goal 7 Renewables: Global
Status Report
Goal 8
Global Review of Aid
for Trade
ILO World of Work Report
Legal instrument and
related monitoring/
review mechanism
Other
intergovernmental
process
Sustainable Development Goals & Monitoring
UN Report (includes
World Bank, IEA)
UN agency/ UN joint
monitoring process
Multi-stakeholder
consultation & UN
interagency processes
Goal 9
ILO Committee of Experts
on the Application of
Conventions and
Recommendations
Programme of Action
for the LDCs, 2011-2020
WIPO Indicators
Goal 10 UNHCR Global Trends
report
Goal 11
World Heritage
Convention
State of the World's
Cities Report
Goal 12
10-year framework of
programmes on SCP Strategic Approach
to International
Chemicals
Management
Global Tracking
Framework report
for "Sustainable
Energy for All"
ILO Statistical
Information and
Monitoring
Programme on Child
Labour
IMF World Economic
Outlook and Databases
Programme of Action for
LLDCs, 2014-2024
Global Innovation Index
UNIDO Industrial
Development Report
Measuring the Information
Society Report
World Social Protection
Report
Intern. Covenant on
Economic, Social and Cultural
Rights
Convention on the
Elimination of All Forms of
Racial Discrimination
Convention on the Rights of
Persons with Disabilities
Framework for the
Development of
Environment Statistics
David LeBlanc
UNDSD
IRENA Multi-
stakeholder Forum
ILO is a Tripartite
body (Industry,
Government,
Trade Unions)
World Urban
Forum
68
69. Goal 13
Vienna Convention /
Montreal Protocol
Global Framework
for Climate Services
Goal 14
First Global Integrated
Marine Assessment
Report
State of World Fisheries
and Aquaculture (SOFIA)
Legal instrument and
related monitoring/
review mechanism
Other
intergovernmental
process
Sustainable Development Goals & Monitoring
UN Report (includes
World Bank, IEA)
UN agency/ UN joint
monitoring process
Multi-stakeholder
consultation & UN
interagency processes
Goal 15
National reports to the
UNCBD United Nations
Forum on Forests
Global Biodiversity
Outlook
Goal 16
Universal Periodic
Review
Goal 17
Committee on the Rights of
the Child
United Nations
Online Network in
Public
Administration and
Finance (UNPAN)
Trade Policy Review
Mechanism UNCTAD/WTO/ITC
Data base on non-
tariff measures
UNFCCC National
Communications
UNFCCC Annex I Parties
GHG Inventories
UN Convention on the
Law of the Sea
Review Conference on
the United Nations Fish
Stocks Agreement Global Ocean Observing
System
FAO Committee on
Fisheries
PRAIS for the UNCCD Global Forest Resources
Assessment
Kimberley Process
Freedom House's Freedom in
the World Survey
UN Survey of Crime Trends
and Operations of Criminal
Justice Systems
The Global Study on Homicide
Intergovernmental
Working Group on the
Right to Development
UN Convention against
Corruption Review
Mechanism
Aarhus Convention
UN Convention against
Transnational Organized
Crime
MDG Gap Report
David LeBlanc
UNDSD
Multi-stakeholder
Dialogues
69
70. The 2030 SD Portfolio JG
Current
• The 17 SDGs with their 169 targets/2030
agenda
• The Addis Ababa Action Agenda
• The Paris Climate Agreement (December
2015)
• The 232 review indicators (2017)
• The Reviews, national, regional, global
• The annual High Level Political Forum,
HLPF
• The Sendai Outcome document, Disaster
reduction
• The Samoa Pathway (SIDS agreement)
• The UN Environment Assembly, every 2
years
To be followed
• World Data Forum,
2019/21/23/25/27
• Review of indicators 2020 and 2024
• HLPF review 2019/2020
• SDG High Level meeting, 2019/23/27
• 2027 – a kick off process to replace
the SDGs (?)
• Annual FfD forums – Addis High Level
Sept 2019
• UNEP Geo 2019
• UNEA 2019/21/23
• The Global Sustainable Development
Report 2019
• SAICM 2020 target/beyond 2020 conf
72. What are the conditions needed for a coalition to succeed ?
KnowYour Own Goals
Know the Decision-making Process inYour Country
KnowWhenToWork atWhat Level
Know the Decision-making Context
Know theTools atYour Disposal
KnowWhenTo MakeYour Position
Know the Government Officials
Know the Key UN Officials
KnowYour Allies
KnowYour Adversaries
KnowYour Limits
KnowYour Brackets andTerms
72
Although, decision-making at UN Environment remains a prerogative of member states, Accredited organizations receive a consultative status.
Environment:
International scope: having an office in another country, dealing with an environment issue that affects more than one country, regular participation in international meetings
In order to facilitate major group engagement, UN Environment has set up a Major Groups Facilitating Committee (MGFC) which “facilitates Major Groups and Stakeholders engagement with UN Environment”. The Major Groups Facilitating Committee (MGFC) is not a decision-making body, but provides guidance and coordinates the engagement of Major Groups
Self-organized
The MGFC is composed of Major Groups’ representatives from MGS accredited to UNEP, supported by
Regional Representatives from the six UNEP regions who have observer status (see below). Each of the
nine Major Groups selects two representatives for a two-year period after consultation and a bidding
process with their constituents. These 18 representatives from the MGFC and three co-chairs are elected
from within the MGFC. The Committee is supported by two Regional Representatives from each region,
12 altogether, elected for a one-year term during the Regional Consultative Meetings (RCMs) taking place
once a year in each of the regions. Members of the Major Groups Facilitating Committee and the Regional
Representatives must come from accredited organizations.
Regional meetings