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UNFF14 CHAIR’S SUMMARY

INTRODUCTION

1. This Chair’s summary is organized in four parts:

Part I summarizes the technical discussions at UNFF14 by Agenda item (Part I.A), with the exception of

Item 10, and offers a set of key proposals emerging from the discussions (Part I.B). Part I is for

transmission to UNFF15.

Part II contains the Chair’s summary which constitutes UNFF14 input to the High-Level Political Forum

on Sustainable Development in 2019 (HLPF 2019) using the template provided by the Economic and

Social Council (ECOSOC). Part II is for transmission to HLPF 2019.

Part III summarizes the UNFF14 discussions on Agenda Item 10 on information on DESA reform

pertaining to the Forum. The Annex to Part III contains the questions submitted by the EU and Canada

to the Secretariat on DESA reform and the full response provided by the OIC of the UNFFS on behalf of

DESA. Part III is for transmission by DESA to appropriate bodies in the UN who are reviewing,

considering and deciding on DESA reform, including the CPC, ACABQ and Fifth Committee, as well as for

transmission to UNFF15.

Part IV provides an indicative list of potential intersessional activities suggested during UNFF14

discussions to facilitate and inform policy deliberations at UNFF15.

PART I:

CHAIR’S SUMMARY OF TECHNICAL DISCUSSIONS AT UNFF14, INCLUDING PROPOSALS,

FOR TRANSMISSION TO UNFF15

2. As provided in the Forum’s Quadrennial Program of Work (4POW) 2017-20201, UNFF14 was the

technical session for the 2019-2020 biennium. As such, discussions focused on implementation and

technical advice on several thematic and operational priorities, including through an exchange of

experiences among Members of the Forum, member organizations of the CPF, regional and subregional

organizations and Major Groups and other stakeholders. To facilitate a productive interactive dialogue

among Forum participants, the organization of work included 11 panel sessions.

This Chair’s summary is not a consensus negotiated outcome of the Forum.

1 4POW: https://documents-dds-ny.un.org/doc/UNDOC/GEN/N17/184/62/PDF/N1718462.pdf?OpenElement

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PART I.A. SUMMARY OF TECHNICAL DISCUSSIONS BY AGENDA ITEM

Agenda Item 3.a - Implementation of the UNSPF 2030 – Technical discussion and exchange of

experiences and Agenda Item 8 - Emerging issues and challenges

3. The Secretariat introduced its Note on Agenda Items 3 and 8 (E/CN.18/2019/2) and noted, inter

alia, recent publication by the Secretariat of a booklet on “Global Forest Goals of the UN Strategic Plan

for Forests 2030” and a brochure on “Voluntary National Contributions towards achieving the Global

Forest Goals”.

(1) Thematic priorities

4. Based on the UNFF14 Bureau’s decision, UNFF14 considered the following thematic

priorities for technical discussion:

• Forests and climate change;

• Forests, inclusive and sustainable economic growth and employment; and

• Forests, peaceful and inclusive societies, reduced inequality, education, and inclusive

institutions at all levels.

5. Consistent with the provisions of the 4POW regarding selection of thematic priorities, the

Bureau was cognizant that the Global Forest Goals (GFGs) and targets of the UN Strategic Plan for

Forests 2017-2030 (UNSPF)2, as set out in the table below, relate directly to one or more of the SDGs

under review by HLPF 20193 as well as to the theme of the International Day of Forests (IDF) 2019

(“Forests and education”).

Thematic priority GFGs Most relevant GFG targets SDGs under review

Forests and climate change4 1, 2, 3, 4, 6 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 2.5, 3.1 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 4.4, 6.4

13, 17

2 UNSPF: https://documents-dds-ny.un.org/doc/UNDOC/GEN/N17/184/62/PDF/N1718462.pdf?OpenElement 3 SDG4: Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all --

SDG8: Promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all -- SDG10: Reduce inequality within and among countries -- SDG13: Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts -- SDG16. Promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all and build effective, accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels --

SDG 17: Strengthen the means of implementation and revitalize the global partnership for sustainable development (reviewed annually).

4 “Forests and climate change” also relates to the objectives of the Paris Agreement adopted under the UNFCCC

which, as acknowledged under SDG 13, is the primary international, intergovernmental forum for negotiating the global response to climate change.

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Forests, inclusive and sustainable economic growth and employment

2, 4, 6 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4, 4.3, 6.3 8, 17

Forests, peaceful and inclusive societies, reduced inequality, education, and inclusive institutions at all levels

3, 5, 6 3.3, 5.1, 5.2, 5.3 5.4, 6.1, 6.2, 6.3, 6.4, 6.5

4, 10, 16, 17 IDF 2019

6. The discussions on the three thematic priorities were facilitated by three panels which

considered, inter alia, linkages between the SDGs under review and the GFGs and targets and how

meeting the GFG targets can accelerate progress on those SDGs.5

7. Summary of discussion on “Forests and climate change”. Participants welcomed the

introduction of the background analytical paper on this theme and the other panel presentations.

Several countries and partners shared efforts and challenges in promoting and safeguarding forest-

based climate benefits, including Brazil, China, Costa Rica, Ecuador, EU, India, Finland, Slovakia, and

Major Groups for Farmers and Small Forest Land Owners and for Scientific and Technological

Communities. China and New Zealand noted their role in co-hosting the “nature-based solutions”

component of the Climate Action Summit to be convened by the Secretary General on 23 September

2019. The following main points and proposals emerged from the discussion:

a. Participants stressed the vital role of forests in meeting the urgent global challenge of

combatting climate change and emphasized the pressing need for further action. They

noted, for example, that all the pathways to limit warming identified by the IPCC in its

recent Special Report on Global Warming of 1.5 degrees rely on forests for Carbon Dioxide

Removal from the atmosphere.

b. The Ministerial Katowice Declaration on Forests for the Climate highlights this crucial role of

forests and forest products in climate change mitigation and adaptation and the Forum

should bring this declaration to the attention of the HLPF.

c. The UNFF and CPF should give increased focus to the need for international policy

coherence, coordination and collaboration on the forests and climate nexus. This will

require work to address broader issues of land use change, energy, sustainable production

and consumption, means of implementation and governance issues in an integrated

manner.

d. At the national level, there is a need to integrate climate mitigation and adaptation policies

and actions more fully into national forest policies and practices. The VNCs put forward by

countries in relation to the UNSPF should include forest-related climate change mitigation

and adaptation actions, and these should be consistent with NDCs under the Paris

Agreement.

5 Information Note on thematic panels: https://www.un.org/esa/forests/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/UNFF14-CNs-Thematic-Panels-6-7May19.pdf

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e. There is a need to mobilize adequate levels of finance in order to implement forest-related

climate change actions. The concern of tropical countries with high forest cover in this

regard was highlighted during the Conference on Climate Finance for High Forestation and

Low Deforestation held in Suriname on 12-15 February 2019. In addition to finance,

effective standards of forest governance, law enforcement and awareness raising through

capacity building of all concerned stakeholders are also prerequisites for the successful

implementation of forest-related climate change actions.

f. The emphasis placed on different forest-related climate change actions, such as reducing

deforestation and forest degradation, promoting SFM techniques designed to maximise

carbon storage in forests and supporting afforestation, reforestation, agroforestry and

forest landscape restoration initiatives, should be adapted to meet local circumstances. For

example, the net contribution of plantation forests to reducing carbon dioxide emissions

depends upon such details as species choice, previous land use and soil cultivation

techniques.

g. The Forum’s submission to HLPF should also note that harvested wood products can

contribute to climate change mitigation through increasing the carbon stock fixed in those

products and replacing products manufactured from greenhouse-gas-intensive materials

such as concrete or brick, metals or plastics.

h. Forest products can be used as a source of renewable energy, including for fuel, heat and

electricity generation.

i. Forests contribute to climate change adaptation and there is an urgent need to identify and

scale up forest-based adaptation strategies. These should also recognize that climate change

related threats to forests may include increased drought, fire, wind, flooding, erosion and

pests and diseases. UNFF should further encourage countries to develop appropriate forest

adaptation strategies.

j. Sound scientific knowledge is required as a basis for better understanding of the role of

forest ecosystems in climate change adaptation and mitigation and for science-based

decisions. Examples include silvicultural practices, interactions with air pollution and

impacts on soil carbon. It is important that scientific results are then effectively

communicated through technology transfer to support effective action.

k. There is a need to strengthen implementation of the UNSPF as an integrated framework for

forest-based national actions and international cooperation. The member organizations of

the Collaborative Partnership on Forests also have a key role in this regard.

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8. Summary of discussion on “Forests, inclusive and sustainable economic growth and

employment”. Participants welcomed the introduction of the background analytical paper on this

theme and the other panel presentations. Several countries and partners shared their experience and

insights, including Algeria, Costa Rica, Ecuador, EU, Finland, Nigeria, EU, Switzerland, and USA. The

following main points and proposals emerged from the discussion:

a. International and national policies should explicitly recognise the potential contribution of forests

to inclusive and sustainable economic growth. Such policies should take account of the particular

circumstances of different countries and regions within countries. For example, in some countries,

there may be significant opportunities for forests to contribute to the bio-economy while in other

countries the priority may be to enhance the role of forests in poverty reduction strategies. At all

levels, it will be necessary to build cross sectoral coordination and policy coherence. This is likely

to require careful analysis to identify synergies and help address trade-offs between different

sectors.

b. It is important to improve understanding of the full value of the ecosystem services that forests

provide. At present, these ecosystem services are often under-valued because they do not have a

market price. As a consequence, the costs of forest resource depletion caused by deforestation

and forest degradation are not properly taken into account when decisions are made about land

use changes, such as the conversion of forest land to agriculture.

c. Successful policy development and implementation is crucially dependent on the involvement,

expertise and entrepreneurship of local people. For example, many trade-offs are best addressed

at the local level. Devolving forest management rights to local communities and smallholders can

help secure inclusive and sustainable economic activity. However, there is concern that in

practice state forests are increasingly being assigned to private companies rather than local

communities.

d. Secure forest tenure and rights to use forest resources are a prerequisite for the sustainable

management of forests and sustainable harvesting of forest products, including non-wood forest

products such as food and medicinal plants. There is also potential for improving livelihoods by

making forest tenure more gender equitable. Women play a key role in many countries where

their knowledge and experience of sustainably managing forest resources is vital.

e. In order to generate sustainable and inclusive growth from forests, local people also require fair

access to markets and access to support, including for example financial services, extension

services and Forest Producer Organizations that can help them develop small scale value-added

marketing chains.

f. More attention should be paid to the informal forest sector. In many countries, the informal forest

sector can be several times larger than the formal forest sector, but this is seldom reflected in

official statistics. As data on forest employment is often used as a measure of its economic

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contribution, lack of information about the informal forest sector can lead to serious under-

estimation of the economic value of forests. Furthermore, people working in the informal sector,

such as vulnerable groups and women, are less likely to have decent working conditions and more

likely to face unsafe working practices and uncertainty regarding working hours and other

conditions of service.

9. Summary of discussion on “Forests, peaceful and inclusive societies, reduced inequality,

education, and inclusive institutions at all levels”. Participants welcomed the introduction of the

background analytical paper on this theme and the other panel presentations. Several countries and

partners shared their experiences and insights, including Bangladesh, Costa Rica, Colombia, EU, Finland,

Germany, India, Indonesia, Lesotho, Peru, Republic of Korea, Russian Federation, Switzerland, USA,

IUFRO and the Major Group for Children and Youth. The following main points and proposals emerged

from the discussion:

a. The importance of effective governance has been highlighted in UNFF Country Led Initiatives on

decentralisation and governance6. Key messages from this work included the importance of

secure tenure, more equitable participation of marginalized groups, and inclusive and

transparent forest institutions.

b. There can be particular challenges in post-conflict areas. Illegal activities or disputes over access

to forest resources can have a negative impact on sustainable forest management. However,

inclusive governance, together with equitable access to the forest resources, can contribute to

peacebuilding efforts.

c. Legal frameworks should provide certainty regarding land tenure. Reforms should be

undertaken where necessary, as for example when customary tenure arrangements prevent

women from owning land. The Voluntary Guidelines on the Responsible Governance of Tenure

of Land, Fisheries and Forests7 are a tool to promote responsible governance of tenure.

d. Support for small-scale landholders and indigenous peoples can enhance the contribution of

forests to social inclusion and equality. In many countries small-scale landholders are farmers as

well as forest managers. Appropriate policy measures may include simplified regulatory

frameworks, technical support, capacity building, finance/credit and improved market access.

To help strengthen Forest and Farm Producer Organizations, consideration should be given to

the development of a global facilitation network.

e. Another aspect of social inclusion is the importance of taking into account the special needs of

people with disabilities when designing of forest recreation facilities.

6 See E/CN.18/2015/12 7 http://www.fao.org/tenure/voluntary-guidelines/en/

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f. More effort is needed to mainstream the perspective of youth in decision-making processes,

recognizing the 2015 UN Security Council resolution8 that encouraged Member States to

consider ways to give youth a greater voice in decision-making at the local, national, regional

and international levels. The UNFF Major Group Children and Youth 2018-2022 Work Plan has

been developed to support implementation of the UNSPF.

g. Partly as a result of urbanization, increasing numbers of people are unaware of the vital

functions of forests, including their environmental, economic and social benefits. Forest

education has a valuable role to play in developing wider public understanding of the

importance of forests.

h. There are already many good examples of forest-related education, both in the classroom and

outdoors, and to accelerate progress it would be beneficial to upscale forest education by

exchanging experiences. Country Reports to UNFF15 provide an opportunity to share success

stories.

i. In addition, there is a need to improve access to forest-related education for people who are

responsible for the management of forests, or for decision-making and professions relevant to

forests and forest products. Different approaches, appropriate to different circumstances, will

include technical training, university courses and meeting the needs of those who have no

access to formal learning.

j. A CPF initiative on forest education would be valuable in providing an opportunity to facilitate

international discussion, exchange ideas and identify research needs. It could build on the work

of existing initiatives such as the Joint IUFRO-IFSA Task Force on Forest Education9 and the

UNESCO Global Action Programme on Education for Sustainable Development10.

k. Forest education should be underpinned by relevant scientific knowledge and traditional forest

related knowledge.

10. Discussions under Item 3.a on implementation of the UNSPF 2030 continued with two panels on

“Mobilizing private sector action in support of the implementation of the UNSPF and the 2030 Agenda

on Sustainable Development” 11 and on “Communication and Outreach and the International Day of

Forests (IDF) 2019”12.

8 See S/RES/2250 (2015) 9 https://www.iufro.org/science/task-forces/forest-education/ 10 https://en.unesco.org/gap 11 Panel Concept Note: https://www.un.org/esa/forests/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/UNFF14-CN-Panel-PrivateSector-7May19.pdf 12 Panel Concept Note: https://www.un.org/esa/forests/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/UNFF14-CN-Panel-Comm-IDF-7May19.pdf

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11. Summary of discussion on mobilizing private sector action. Panelists representing the Brazilian

planted tree industry, the Ghanaian forest sector and the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest

Certification (PEFC) highlighted how their initiatives and programmes contribute to the GFGs and SDGs,

and identified conditions and challenges for successful investment and ways the Forum might attract

private sector participation in its work. Participants welcomed the presentations. The following main

points and proposals emerged from the discussion:

a. The private sector has a crucial role in sustainable forest management and as advocates for the

successful implementation of the UNSPF.

b. The private forest sector is not a monolith. It includes small, medium, large/multinational forest

enterprises which may rely on natural, semi-natural or planted forests, or a combination, for

source material and may be involved in primary, secondary and/or high value-added processing.

c. Planted forests, which can have as short a rotation as six years in some countries, currently

meet 50% of global demand for pulp, paper and packaging and contribute significantly to job

creation in many countries. With world population projected to reach 9 billion by 2050, an

estimated 250 million hectares of additional planted forests and their sound forest management

will be needed to meet this demand.

d. Strong public policies at national and subnational levels can help ensure planted forests

contribute to the GFGs and SDGs by stipulating biodiversity protection, forests preservation and

restoration and local involvement and benefit sharing as conditions of plantation operations.

e. Small and family forest owners are major investors in forests and producers of forest products

and services in many countries. Achieving the GFGs depends on collaboration with local

producers.

f. Consumer/market demand is a main driver of forest management approaches and chain of

custody certification. Opportunities for certification can be found in a variety of markets,

including for example the fashion, hospitality, and building/construction industries.

g. The rate of increase in forest land certified by internationally recognized schemes is decreasing.

Governments can foster certification through various public policy fiscal tools, including taxation

and economic incentives.

h. Countries interested in developing national certification programs that meet international

criteria could start by looking at existing national mechanisms/processes and identifying who is

responsible for forest management at various levels within the country.

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i. The need for mainstreaming gender in the private sector was highlighted. Gender equality and

empowerment of women and girls are important component of internationally recognized

certification schemes

j. Private sector investment in the forest sector is and will continue to be the main source of forest

financing. Barriers to investment include lack of clarity/stability in national policies, lack of cross-

sectoral policies and business incentives to support the long-term nature of investments in

natural forests, and negative perceptions about the private sector.

k. Strong national/subnational environmental and social safeguards are needed to ensure

investments are sustainable and socially beneficial.

l. In countries/regions where natural forests are declining due to decades of harvesting,

companies can remain viable by forming partnerships with communities (e.g. for tree planting)

and investing in forest-based material for chemical and medicines, eco-tourism and/or value-

added processing. Government support is often needed to underwrite such investments.

m. The Forum could attract the participation of forest companies/enterprises by addressing issues

of interest, including those related to SDG 8.2, 8.3 and 8.9, and recognizing the potential

complementary nature of fast-growing planted forests and natural/semi-natural forests in

meeting demand for forest goods and services, as well as the positive role of the private sector

in SFM.

n. The Forum should explore mechanisms for effective and ongoing dialogue with the private

sector by capitalizing on existing mechanisms such as the Advisory Committee on Sustainable

Forest-based Industries (ACSFI) under FAO, as well as through new and additional mechanisms

that would help the Forum to communicate with the private sector.

o. Only minimal amount of public finance for climate change mitigation is available for reducing

deforestation, and adaptation. There is an opportunity to use the GFFFN to draw attention to

the importance of financing for forest-based adaptation to climate change. The GFFFN and its

Clearinghouse could help to link the private sector and innovative private sector tools to

mobilise and harness new kinds of investors and investments for forests.

12. Summary of discussion on communication and outreach and IDF 2019. Panelists from the

UNFFS, FAO and the Major Group for Children and Youth described their activities in support of the

Communication and Outreach Strategy adopted at UNFF13, including in the context of the IDF 2019, as

well as success stories, success criteria and challenges and the value of complementary messages.

Participants welcomed the presentations. The CPF-proposed theme for IDF 2020 of “forests and

biodiversity” was supported and endorsed. A number of countries and partners shared their

communication experiences, as well as IDF 2019 activities, including Bolivia, China, Ghana, Indonesia,

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Japan, Philippines, Republic of Korea and USA. The following main points and proposals emerged from

the discussion:

a. Collaboration with partners, including governments, CPF, civil society, and regional

communicators networks, is crucial for amplifying key messages and implementing the C&O

Strategy

b. Different communication channels and products are needed to engage different audiences, at

the local, national and international levels, in urban and rural settings, with and without access

to internet-based communication such as social media. Products, in different languages,

including UNFFS and CPF products, are important in this regard.

c. Communication and outreach should target audiences and non-traditional partners to reach

beyond the comfort zone of the forestry community, to reach other sectors, consumers and the

general public. Education and extension activities should target different actors who can inspire

change, from school age children and to political leaders who develop policies and practices.

d. In addition to fact-based communication, human interest stories that are relatable are also vital

for engagement and impact.

e. Visually appealing design products with simple, user-friendly messages are needed.

f. Positive images and advocates are also needed to counter negative public perceptions that

persist on issues such as sustainable use of wood.

g. Social media offers a new outlet for communication and outreach with a huge public reach.

Contests, videos, TV spots, editorials, and World Café sessions are also some tried and tested

communication activities

h. Every IDF is an important opportunity to educate people about forests.

i. Continuity of engagement and scaling up communications is key, and also requires consistent

resources.

j. The Secretariat was requested to update its website to make its navigation more user friendly

and its content, such as Forum related documents, more easily accessible. The Secretariat was

also requested to make its publications and communication and outreach materials available in

all UN official languages. It was also suggested that a lapel pin with the GFGs logo could be an

attractive and simple product which would serve as a fine communication tool.

Agenda Item 3.b: Implementation of the UNSPF 2030 - Voluntary National Contributions

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13. Seven countries announced their Voluntary National Contributions (VNCs) to achieving the GFGs

and targets during UNFF14: Australia, Canada, China, Germany, Indonesia, and Israel, bringing the total

VNC announcements by Members of the Forum to 16.13 Ecuador, Ghana and Morocco reported

progress on their VNCs announced at UNFF13. The Democratic Republic of Congo informed that

Member countries of COMIFAC are considering moving forward on developing VNCs.

14. Summary of discussion on Item 3.b. The Chair welcomed the new VNC announcements and

encouraged Members of the Forum that have not yet done so to communicate their VNCs to the

Secretariat at the earliest opportunity. The following main points and proposals emerged from the

discussion:

a. A synthesis of VNCs communicated to the Secretariat should be streamlined and not duplicate

the expected content of the “flagship” publication to be released by the end of 2021.

b. It would be helpful to develop a concise and simple template for voluntary national

contributions towards achievement of the GFGs and targets for consideration at UNFF15.

c. Consideration should be given to intersessional activity aimed at preparing the next 4POW for

the period beyond 2020.

Agenda Item 3.c: Implementation of the UNSPF 2030 – UN system-wide contributions to the GFGs and

targets

15. Summary of discussions on Item 3.c. The session, which complemented the session on Agenda

items 7.a, b and c, was facilitated by a panel comprised of the Chair of the Commission on the Status of

Women (CSW) who highlighted the linkages between accelerated progress on SDG 5 (gender equality an

empowering women and girls) and achieving the GFGs, and five CPF members. 14 Following an update by

FAO on the CPF Work Plan, including updates for 2019-2020 and work on a CPF strategic vision towards

2030, CPF panelists described their organization’s strategies, plans and programmes that contribute to

and/or are aligned with the GFGs. Participants welcomed the presentations and progress made. The

following main points and proposals emerged from the discussion:

a. Gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls (SDG5) will accelerate the

achievement of all GFGs and SDGs. Collecting and analyzing gender disaggregated data is

essential in this regard.

13 VNCs were previously announced by Ecuador, Ghana, Guatemala, Jamaica, Liberia, Madagascar, Morocco, New Zealand, Slovak Republic and Ukraine. These VNC announcements are available at https://www.un.org/esa/forests/documents/un-strategic-plan-for-forests-2030/vncs/index.html 14 Panel Concept Note: https://www.un.org/esa/forests/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/UNFF14-CN-Panel-CPF-7May19.pdf

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b. The UNFF and CSW should explore areas of mutual interest based on the interlinkages between

gender quality and SFM and, conversely, between the lack of gender equality and

empowerment of women and girls, and deforestation. The CPF is also well positioned to

champion gender equality and empowerment of women and girls.

c. The UNSPF provides a comprehensive framework for improved coherence, cooperation and

coordination among CPF member organizations. Further efforts are needed in this regard.

d. There is a need to enhance synergies at the national level in approaches to achieving the GFGs,

SDGs, Aichi Biodiversity Targets, and other internationally agreed goals, as well as to explore

synergies and complementarities across VNCs, NDCs and national biodiversity strategies and

actions plans, as well as the land degradation neutrality targets.

e. Collaboration between governments and civil society is vital to addressing deforestation and

achieve the GFGs.

f. There is a need for CPF member organizations and their Members and Parties to intensify work

on governance and financing at the jurisdictional level to scale up good practices and create a

legal and attractive environment to unlock private investment.

g. The CPF could benefit from reaching out to non-CPF bodies, including the Intergovernmental

Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) which recently released

the “IPBES Global Assessment Report on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services" revealing

unprecedented species loss in recent years.

Agenda Item 8: Emerging issues and challenges

16. One Member State said that Europe had faced extreme events in 2018, namely fire, bark beetle

attacks and storms. He recognised that many other countries, including developing countries, also face

challenges from extreme events and suggested sharing experience by having an item on the agenda of

UNFF15 regarding the impact of extreme events.

Agenda Item 4: Monitoring, assessment and reporting: 4.a - Progress on implementation of the

UNSPF 2030, including the UN Forest Instrument (UNFI) and VNCs; 4.b - Progress on development of

global forest indicators.

17. The Secretariat introduced its Note on Agenda Item 4 (E/CN.18/2019/3), including Annex 1

which contains the set of “Explanatory Notes” developed at a workshop organized in collaboration with

FAO (November 2018, Rome) to assist countries in submitting their first round of voluntary national

reports using the format adopted by UNFF13.

18. Summary of discussions on Items 4a and 4b. Discussions were facilitated by a panel comprised

of FAO, UNECE and three countries involved in the pilot testing of the draft template for voluntary

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national reporting (Ghana, Kenya and Philippines). Panelists addressed progress and challenges in

reporting15, including notably on GFG targets 2.1, 2.3, 4.1 and 4.2, and related challenges on data

collection on Tier 3 of the global core set of forest-related indicators16. Participants welcomed the

presentations. Several countries shared their own experiences in national reporting, including Argentina,

Australia, Canada, China, Ecuador, EU, Fiji, Japan, Korea, New Zealand, Russian Federation, Sri Lanka,

Ukraine and USA. The following main points and proposals on items 4a and 4b emerged from the

discussion:

a. The Explanatory Notes for country reports were welcomed and it was suggested that it would be

helpful to hold a further expert workshop before the submission deadline of mid-November

2019.

b. Further information was requested on the proposed methodology for analyzing country reports,

given the likely volume and qualitative nature of the responses. It was suggested that

consideration be given to the use of formal content analysis techniques for this work, drawing

upon the expertise of CPF members.

c. Progress on the global core set of forest-related indicators was welcomed. The CPF should

continue its work to develop the tier 2 and tier 3 indicators, including the elaboration of

definitions, and consider the use of pilot studies in this context. Care should be taken not to

increase the reporting burden on countries.

19. Summary of discussions on the “flagship publication”. The Secretariat also noted proposed

intersessional work, including the establishment of an advisory committee, to take forward the

“flagship” publication to be released by the end of 2021. The following main points and proposals on

the flagship publication emerged from the discussion:

a. It is important to consider the scope, content and style of the flagship publication, its target

audiences, the possible use of creative multimedia products and resource implications.

b. It might be useful to launch the flagship publication at the World Forestry Congress in 2021 to reach a wider audience and capitalize on visibility.

c. Members of the Forum should be given an opportunity to review the draft flagship document

before publication.

d. It was suggested to consider inviting the Children and Youth MG to join the advisory committee.

15 Panel Concept Note: https://www.un.org/esa/forests/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/UNFF14-CN-Panel-MAR-8May19.pdf 16 The global core set has been developed primarily to reduce national forest-related burdens by eliminating parallel or multiple reporting be countries. The current set includes 21 indicators, of which 7 are designated Tier 1 (information is readily available), 5 are designated Tier 2 (information is available but not consistently), and 4 are designated Tier 3 (significant challenges in data collection remain).

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20. Australia requested that a proposal on the way forward on the flagship publication which was the result of brainstorming meeting hosted by Australia during UNFF14, to be annexed to Part I of the Chair’s Summary17. Australia also offered to provide AUD$50,000 to procure expertise and skills for development of the flagship publication.

Agenda Item 5: Means of implementation: Progress on the activities and the operation of the GFFFN

and availability of resources

21. The Secretariat introduced its Note on Agenda item 5 (E/CN.18/2019/4) and provided an update

on intersessional activities related to GFFFN operations. These included, inter alia, organizing validation

and capacity building workshops in client countries and assembling teams of national and international

consultants to assist in developing financing strategies and project concepts under priorities 1 and 2 of

the Network’s four priorities, as well as organizing an Expert Meeting (January 2019, New York) to

discuss development of the clearing house (CH) mechanism (priority 3) based on guidance contained in

section 7 of the Guidelines on the Operation of the GFFFN adopted by UNFF13.

22. The Co-Chairs of the Expert Meeting summarized the discussions and outcome of the meeting18

which were facilitated by two background analytical papers. The meeting identified four core elements

of the CH (search engine criteria, database, interface and management), outlined a two-phase approach

with timelines for developing and operationalizing the CH, and suggested intersessional work following

UNFF14 to develop a solid proposal for phase 1 for consideration by UNFF15, with a view to

operationalizing phase 1 by the end of 2020.

23. Discussions under Item 5 were also facilitated by a panel moderated by Switzerland and

comprised of Jamaica and South Africa who considered how the GFFFN could further support countries

in advancing the GFGs consistent with the Network’s purpose and priorities, as well as ways to take

forward the GFFFN priority 419 in light of the Network’s other priorities and the Forum’s other work

supporting the GFGs and targets.20

24. Summary of discussions on Item 5: GFFFN operations and clearing house. Participants

welcomed progress made in operationalizing the GFFFN and the Secretariat’s initiative in securing

funding from the UN Regular Programme on Technical Cooperation, as well as the generous voluntary

contributions provided this year by China, Finland and Switzerland in support of the Network.

17 This proposal is contained in Annex to Part I.A of the Chair’s summary. 18 Co-Chairs Summary: https://www.un.org/esa/forests/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/EGM-CH-2019-CH-CoChairs-Summary.pdf 19 GFFFN priority 4: “Serve to contribute to the achievement of the GFGs and targets as well as priorities contained

in the quadrennial programme of work of the Forum”

20 Panel Concept Note: https://www.un.org/esa/forests/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/UNFF14-CN-Panel-MoI-8May19.pdf

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Participants also welcomed the panel presentations. The following main points and proposals emerged

from the discussion on GFFFN operations and the clearing house:

a. A number on countries expressed appreciation for the support they have received from the

GFFFN.

b. There is a need to continue to raise awareness of the GFFFN, including at regional and

subregional levels.

c. There is a need for enhanced funding and staff capacity for the GFFFN to meet all requests for

assistance.

d. It would be useful to clarify the linkage between national forest financing strategies and national

forest programmes, action plans and priorities.

e. It would be useful to undertake an assessment of the success to date of the GFFFN in leveraging

financing from other sources and facilitating access to global funds.

f. It would be useful to engage relevant stakeholders and potential funding organisations in GFFFN

related discussions at country level.

g. Consider extending GFFFN support to capacity building on enabling environments for investment

and integrated national forest action plans that incorporate priorities for achieving GFGs, NCDs

and ABTs.

h. Challenges remain in accessing funds and meeting required procedures in this regard.

i. It would be useful if the GFFFN could provide information about the eligibility of country, including economies in transition, to a particular fund and possible implementing agency for particular fund.

j. The clearing house should be developed and operationalized in a phased stepwise approach. The

end product should be user friendly.

k. The clearing house should utilize, interface with and build on existing databases and mechanisms

wherever possible, and avoid duplication and additional reporting requirements.

l. Cost benefit analysis of various options, including building partnerships with existing databases

such as the DAC/IATI, should be conducted in exploring the most efficient and effective ways to

develop and operate the clearing house.

m. GFFFN operation and the development of its clearing house must be fully transparent, in line

with the GFFFN guidelines.

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25. Suriname informed participants about the conference it hosted in Paramaribo in February 2019

to consider the special situation and needs of developing countries with high forest cover and low

deforestation rates (HFLD), a number of which have made commitments in the context of the Paris

Agreement to maintain and conserve their forests as part of their NDCs. Suriname noted that HFDL

developing countries cannot meet these commitments without the support of the international

community and appealed to the UNFF to recognize this in the context of GFFFN operations. Two other

HFDL countries supported Suriname.

26. Update on a possible GFFFN project office in China. The Secretariat provided an update

regarding the possible establishment of a “UNFFS project office” for the GFFFN in Beijing, China. The

Secretariat informed that in follow up to UNFF Resolution 13/1 (May 2018), in September 2018 the

Permanent Mission of the PRC to the UN transmitted a Note Verbal to DESA confirming the offer made

by the Chinese delegation at UNFF13 and requesting DESA to begin preparations of relevant draft

documents needed to initiate bilateral consultations. In November 2018, two draft documents prepared

by DESA in coordination with the UN Office of Legal Affairs (OLA) were transmitted to the PRC for their

consideration: (1) a draft Host Country Agreement (HCA) and (2) a draft Memorandum of Understanding

(MoU).

27. Two rounds of bilateral consultations were subsequently held on 14-15 January 2019 in New

York and 24-25 April 2019 in Beijing to discuss the draft documents. While some progress was made on

the two draft documents, further consultations will be needed over the coming months and it is

expected that the agreement would be signed before the end of the year.

28. The proposed office would aim at scaling up capacity building activities under the GFFFN

consistent with the Guidelines for the Operation of the GFFFN adopted by the Forum. The proposed

office would have no normative mandate or policy setting role.

29. The head of the project office would report to and be supervised by the Director of the UNFF

Secretariat in New York. The UNFFS would remain the interface with Members for GFFFN support and

would continue to report to the Forum on the operation of the GFFFN, including the activities of the

proposed office. These arrangements will remain regardless of the outcome of DESA reforms

concerning the level of the Director position. The proposed office would operate in accordance with the

financial and administrative rules and regulations of the UN.

30. Summary of discussion on a possible UNFFS office for the GFFFN in Beijing. A number of

Members of the Forum welcomed the generous offer by China to host an office for the GFFFN in Beijing

and expressed their full support for the establishment of the proposed office, stressing the importance

of enhanced financial resources for developing countries to achieve the GFGs and targets. Some other

Members of the Forum expressed concern about the lack of information since UNFF13 on the progress

of discussions on a possible GFFFN office in Beijing and were concerned of having a Secretariat office

away from headquarters. They requested regular reporting and full transparency going forward,

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including as regards the delineation of functions, roles and responsibilities of the proposed office,

applicability of UN rules on the recruitment of staff for the office and accessibility of the office by all

Members of the Forum, as well as reporting lines, budgetary information for the UNFFS and the

proposed office, and staffing levels. Clarification sought on the impacts of potential change in the post

level for the head of the UNFFS (in the context of DESA reform) on the operation and management of

the proposed office, and whether the core function of the GFFFN can be carried out in a place other

than the UNFFS. Concern was also expressed on possible loss in efficiency and effectiveness of the

GFFFN management due to having its operation in two locations. One Member State asked for

clarification on what are the inadequacies in the present system that necessitated the establishment

and operationalization of an office in Beijing. A number of members requested the UNFF Secretariat to

provide in writing the update provided, as well as the current HCA and MOU and the cost-benefit

analysis carried out for the establishment of this office. A request was also made to analyze this against

other alternative arrangement options taking into account their respective cost benefit analyses. In

response, the Secretariat clarified that:

a. The proposed office for the GFFFN is a “project office”.

b. No administrative or operational costs of the proposed office will be paid through the regular

budget of the UN or the Forum Trust Fund. All such costs would be paid entirely from an extra-

budgetary fund to be provided by China for this purpose. There would be no programme budget

implications (PBIs) for the regular UN budget or the Forum Trust Fund. And the Chinese

Government will cover the full cost for the operation and activities of the proposed office.

c. The financial management of the trust fund for this office will carried out in New York. Voluntary

contributions in the Trust Fund earmarked to support the GFFFN would continue to be

disbursed at the direction of the UNFF Secretariat Director.

d. Recruitment of staff would be handled in New York in accordance with established UN rules

based on competency, with due regard given to geographic balance in this context. Staffing

table is still under discussion.

e. Not all GFFFN-related activities will be transferred to this office. The UNFFS remains the

manager of the GFFFN for its core functions, including the development and management of the

GFFFN clearinghouse. The office will mainly assist the Secretariat in regard to the GFFFN

capacity development activities. The proposed office in Beijing will operate under direct

supervision of the Director of the UNFFS who would ensure the efficiency of the work and

coordination between the UNFFS and the proposed office.

f. The UNFFS will seek advice from OLA on the possibility of sharing of the draft HCA and MOU

with Members of the Forum.

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31. China reiterated and clarified that the proposed office is intended to enhance the capacity of

Secretariat regarding GFFFN activities and assistance to countries; and that China will bear all costs

associated with the proposed office and hence there will be no impact on the regular budget of the UN,

UNFF Secretariat or the Forum Trust Fund; and that they would try to keep high transparency to on this

matter and that all details are contained in Secretariat Note and the update provided, and there are no

hidden things or surprises.

Agenda Item 6: Enhancing global forest policy coherence and a common international understanding

of sustainable forest management (SFM)

32. The Secretariat introduced its Note on Agenda Item 6 (E/CN.18/2019/5), which relates directly

to GFG targets 6.1, 6.2, and 6.421, and summarized the general conclusions and proposals that emerged

from responses to the informal survey circulated by the Secretariat (in September 2018) to CPF

members, regional/subregional bodies active in the Forum, and Major Group focal points in order to

gather preliminary information and views on Item 6.

33. Summary of discussion on Item 6. Several countries and partners shared their experiences and

insights, including Costa Rica, EU, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Ukraine, Uruguay and US. The following

main points and proposals emerged from the discussion:

a. Members of the Forum, CPF member organizations and regional/subregional and Major Group

organizations should utilize the UNSPF as the overarching framework for advancing global forest

policy coherence and a common understanding of SFM, recognizing the need to be sensitive to

diverse approaches regarding SFM, to acknowledge different organizational mandates and to

respect national sovereignty.

b. CPF member organizations should integrate the GFGs and targets wherever relevant in their

post-2020 strategies, plans and programmes, aligning these with a 2030-time horizon.

c. The CPF strategic vision beyond 2030 and Work Plan 2021-2024, revolving around the six GFGs,

offer important opportunities to advance global forest policy coherence within and across the

UN system and CPF member organizations.

d. Integration of the GFGs and targets into regional/subregional forest-related programmes, plans

and policies will enhance forest policy coherence at regional/subregional levels.

21 GFG6.1: Forest-related programmes within the UN System are coherent and complementary and integrate the GFGs and targets where appropriate. GFG6.2: Forest-related programmes across CPF member organizations are coherent and complementary and together encompass the multiple contributions of forests and the forest sector to the 2030 Agenda. GFG6.4: A greater common understanding of the concept of sustainable forest management is achieved and an associated set of indicators is identified.

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e. Major Groups, including the forest products industry, should be more engaged in promoting

forest policy coherence at all levels, including through their joint and complementary work

plans.

f. Major Groups, in partnership with Members of the Forum, should consider strengthening multi-

stakeholder dialogues on GFG 6, building on existing mechanisms and platforms and be engaged

in developing the next 4POW.

g. Members of the Forum, as members of the governing bodies of CPF organizations, should

consider allocating budgetary resources for CPF joint activities supporting the UNSPF.

Agenda Item 7: Enhanced cooperation, coordination and engagement on forest-related issues: 7.a

Activities of the CPF in support of the UNSPF 2030 and the 4POW 2017-2020; 7.b UNFCCC -

implementation of the Paris Agreement; 7.c CBD - Aichi Biodiversity Targets

32. The Secretariat introduced its Note on Agenda Item 7 (E/CN.18/2019/6), including Items 7.d and

7.e which are summarized in paragraphs 28 and 29.

33. Summary of discussions on Items 7.a, b and c. The discussions were facilitated by a panel

which provided an update on CPF joint initiatives and their linkages and contributions to the GFGs and

targets; implementation of the Paris Agreement, including NDCs; development of the post-2020 global

biodiversity framework; and progress on SDG15.3, land degradation neutrality (LDN).22 Participants

welcomed the progress made. Several countries asked questions or made statements, including DRC,

Ecuador, Fiji, Germany, Indonesia, Jamaica, Japan, Korea, New Zealand, Russian Federation, Switzerland

and US. The following main points and proposals emerged from the discussions:

a. There is a need to enhance coordination and communication in implementation of the UNSPF,

Paris Agreement, post-2020 biodiversity framework and LDN initiatives, including as related to

reporting, recognizing that forest-related matters will be discussed in different fora and the

continuing need for effective communication.

b. The CBD Secretariat would welcome the Forum’s inputs to the development of its Post 2020

Global Biodiversity Framework, including through written submissions and participation in

thematic and working group meetings, and there was a request for the UNFFS to engage in

these opportunities.

c. There is a need for greater collaboration, synergies and communication among the Forum,

UNFCCC, CBD and UNCCD, including through the CPF and their respective secretariats. There is

also a need for topical or “results-based” collaboration. The Forum should continue to receive

22 Panel Concept Note: https://www.un.org/esa/forests/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/UNFF14-CN-Panel-EnhancedCoop-9May19.pdf

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an overview on these matters, and it may be helpful to underpin this with further theoretical

policy and normative analysis.

d. Global forest policy coherence across CPF members needs to take into account differences in

organizations mandates and focus and resources available to the CPF.

e. The CPF Work Plan is enhancing cooperation and has the potential to be a tool for fund raising

and collaboration with donors, as illustrated by the contributions announced by Germany in its

VNC.

f. Coherence could be strengthened through collective technical and scientific work to

demonstrate how SFM supports international and national agendas, greater emphasis on cross-

sectoral issues, involving Major Groups in the CPF, and establishing dedicated CPF funding to

support joint implementation strategies.

g. Higher priority should be given to developing strategic relationships between/across processes

in the forest and other sectors, including through contact between National Focal Points at the

country level.

h. Member States as members of the governing bodies of CPF members could[/should-JUSCANZ]

foster joint programming.

Agenda Item 7.d: Enhanced cooperation, coordination and engagement on forest-related issues –

Regional and subregional partners

34. Summary of discussions on Item 7.d. The discussions were a follow up to the UNFF Expert

Meeting on “Regional and Subregional Inputs to the UNFF” (January 2019, Bangkok)23 and were

facilitated by a panel representing entities which attended the Bangkok expert group. Panelists

described their programs and priorities supporting the GFGs and the SDGs under review in 2019,

together with efforts to integrate the GFGs and targets into their policies and programmes and raise

awareness of the contributions of forests and the GFGs to the SDGs under review in 2019.24 Participants

welcomed the presentations and the discussion which followed. The following main points emerged

from the discussion:

a. Regional and sub-regional bodies are advancing the implementation of the UNSPF and the

achievement of the GFGs and targets, incorporating them as appropriate into their respective work

programs.

23 Expert meeting summary: https://www.un.org/esa/forests/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Summary-EGM-Reg-Bangkok-Jan-19.pdf 24 Panel Concept Note: https://www.un.org/esa/forests/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/UNFF14-CN-Panel-Regional-9May19.pdf

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b. The successful implementation of the UNSPF and the achievement of the GFGs requires awareness

raising and capacity building activities involving all stakeholders, in particular farmers, academia,

private sector and local communities.

c. Sustainable natural resources management is fundamental for a successful regional integration, as

well as for the achievement of peace and prosperity.

d. Bamboo and rattan can help in the mitigation of climate change and reduce the pressure on forests.

e. Community forestry includes customary and indigenous processes and government-led initiatives

addressing social, economic and environmental dimensions. It is essential in achieving the GFGs and

many of the SDGs and Aichi Biodiversity Targets.

f. Challenges in raising awareness of the contributions of forests and the GFGs to the SDGs include lack

of adequate funding, difficulties in translating to the ground what is discussed in political fora and in

making it clear that the GFGs are promoting sustainable forest management principles that have

been known for generations.

g. The GFGs are relatively new and are slowly being integrated into the work of forest-related entities,

but in time they will be more widely known.

35. In response to an invitation by the Forum’s thirteenth session, the FAO representative updated

participants on the consideration by the Committee on Forestry, at its twenty-fourth session, of the

potential offered by the Regional Forestry Commissions, as appropriate, for enhancing regional and sub-

regional involvement. Participants were informed that the Committee had considered this invitation,

recommended deeper collaboration between the Regional Forestry Commissions and the Forum

through its regional dimension, and suggested that the collaboration be flexible and fit for various

regional circumstances.

Agenda Item 7.e: Enhanced cooperation, coordination and engagement on forest-related issues –

Major Groups and other relevant stakeholders

36. Summary of discussions on Item 7.e. The session was a follow up to the UNFF Expert Meeting

“To review progress in implementation of the Major Groups work plans and input to UNFF14” (January

2019, Bangkok)25 and were facilitated by a panel of Major Group representatives who reviewed

provisions in the UNSPF regarding Major Groups and related UNFF support, progress in implementing

the joint Major Group Work Plan 2018-2020 in support of the UNSPF and complementary work plans by

Children and Youth, Indigenous Peoples, NGOs, Scientific and Technological Communities and Women

as well as steps taken to integrate the GFGs and targets into their policies and programmes and raise

awareness of the contributions of forests and the GFGs to the SDGs under review in 2019.26 Participants

25 Draft meeting summary: https://www.un.org/esa/forests/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/DraftSummary-EGM-MGs-Bangkok-Jan-19.pdf

26 Panel Concept Note: https://www.un.org/esa/forests/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/UNFF14-CN-Panel-MGs-9May19.pdf

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welcomed the presentations and progress made. The following main points and proposals emerged

from the discussion:

a. Civil society activities in support of the Forum and effective participation of Major Groups in the

Forum’s policy and technical sessions should be supported by governments.

b. International, regional/subregional and national organizations should support efforts to

implement the Major Group Work Plan and complementary work plans.

c. Land, forest and tree tenure security is a foundation for SFM.

d. It is important to adapt the GFGs and targets to the local context and align them with

community planning processes. Forest owners and farmers announced their intention to pilot

the application of GFGs and targets to small landholders in selected countries.

e. There is a need to strengthen local level knowledge-sharing platforms, further develop a roster

of Indigenous peoples and local communities’ experts, investments in science and technology,

and data collection including gender disaggregated data.

f. Germany said that their VNC would include funding to strengthen MG activity in support of

UNSPF. The funding agreement between Germany and UNFFS/UNDESA is in the process of being

finalized.

g. Gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls (SDG5) is essential to achieving all

GFGs and SDGs, including the SDGs under review in 2019. Collecting gender disaggregated data,

capacity building, education, networking and enhanced advocacy are essential in this regard.

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Annex to Part I.A: Proposed Scoping Document for the Development of the “Flagship

Publication”

Background

With the adoption of the United Nations Strategic Plan for Forests (UNSPF), the UNFF has been given a

valuable opportunity to create awareness of the role of forests in addressing some of the world’s most

pressing challenges. With the distinction of being a strategic plan that spans the entire UN, the Forum

now has the opportunity, and responsibility, to be the leading global voice for forests and sustainable

forest management (SFM). Central to the Forum’s success is the ability to reach new audiences, and to

add novel insights and information to the global conversation on forests. This moves beyond the

internally focussed means of communicating to a more accessible, targeted approach that will

contribute to achieving the ambitious goals and objectives we set out for ourselves in May 2017.

At the 13th Session of the Forum (UNFF13), UNFF Member States agreed on the new reporting format

for producing voluntary national reports focused on demonstrating the critical role of forests in

achieving sustainable development. UNFF13 also agreed to produce a 2021 Flagship Publication that

must be credible, representative, concise and compelling while also demonstrating how UNFF members

contribute to the achievement of the Global Forest Goals (GFGs) and, by extension, the Sustainable

Development Goals.

A well-designed flagship publication will be an effective tool for communicating the policy relevance,

policy drivers, and more importantly, the policy gaps related to the sustainability of the world’s forests.

It will also help demonstrate UNFF’s relevance vis-à-vis other forest-related fora while helping to engage

with and communicate to others in the land use spectrum and to the donor community, including

private sector and foundations.

This paper provides guidance from Member States for what the flagship publication may include.

UNFF 13 Decisions

At UNFF 13, the Forum further emphasized “…the value of making effective use of the information

provided by Members through their voluntary national reporting and, to this end, requests the

Secretariat to prepare, based on the initial round of reporting and in consultation with Members of the

Forum, member organizations of the CPF and relevant stakeholders, a concise “flagship” publication on

progress towards achieving the GFGs and targets for release by the end of 2021, using existing resources,

suitable for a range of audiences within and outside the forest sector, and also requests the Secretariat

to report on planning in this regard to the 15th session of the Forum”

The Omnibus Resolution from UNFF13 states that a flagship publication is ambitious and visible and addresses the core issues for which the body is responsible. It should have substance, as well as a symbolic importance, be well presented and addressed to an audience wider than those who constitute the agency’s core community. Such a study by UNFF would generate a clear story based on facts and demonstrate the ability of the United Nations to speak with a single voice to major forest issues, demonstrating the contribution of forests to the Global Agenda 2030 (SDGs), as well as the central position of UNFF.

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The opportunity and important considerations

With the GFG-focused reporting template approved in 2018, the next major consideration is the intent

and audience of the flagship publication. Reflecting the reporting template, the flagship publication

needs to focus specifically on the GFGs.

The main audience should be an interested and informed public and include, at a minimum, the

following:

1) Policy makers and heads of land use sectors

2) All UN bodies and agencies concerned with sustainable development matters

3) Academia

4) Philanthropic decision-makers and influencers

5) CPF members and supporters

6) Specialised media

7) Major Groups and other stakeholders

These audiences all have direct links to forests and can benefit from increased and coordinated

engagement with the GFGs. The flagship publication must engage these audiences to increase their

awareness on actions, stimulate their support and ideas, and encourage accelerated progress.

The report must be limited to a maximum of 20 pages, written in plain language and remain high level to

capture a broader audience. Links to other publications or resources can be embedded in the digital

report to allow readers to access further information.

How to realize the opportunity

To be a truly different and forward-thinking publication, it should answer the following basic questions

in an attractive, succinct and impactful way:

1. Why do forests, and thus SFM, matter for sustainable development (economic, social,

environmental, and cultural)?

2. What are the six GFGs and the role of the UNFF and its UNSPF?

3. What is the world’s progress in achieving these goals and what are [six] policy challenges/gaps

that are key to success? (perhaps one challenge/gap per goal)

Coverage of these three basic questions will position publication readers and the UNFF with a strong

foundation to take stock of progress and re-energise activities to deliver success for the GFGs by 2030.

The structure could include:

• Foreword from an influential figure (non-UN/government)

• Executive Summary for the public (not just the level of policymakers)

• Eye catching and easy to understand sets of statistics and facts on why forests matter for

Sustainable Development.

o Synergies with other international efforts towards SFM, such as the SDGs and the

Rio Conventions including brief background on the UNFF and UNSPF

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• Section on each GFG (perhaps two pages per GFG) including a synthesis of the progress that

has been made, key challenges, and what gaps exist.

• Six key policy challenges/gaps – these can deal with emerging issues and/or observed trends

from all of the inputs.

• Conclusion

This suggested structure is not rigid or intended to limit the creative process which must ensure a fit-for-

purpose document is delivered.

Forward process

To progress work, the following considerations were identified:

• That an advisory committee be established (via the Bureau) in the near future to advise on the

development of the flagship report; with virtual tools be used for convening meetings and

facilitating inputs.

• Opportunities to be provided for all Member States, including through use of virtual tools, to

input to the development of the flagship publication at periodic points throughout the process;

possibly through the representatives on the advisory committee and through the mandated

secretariat’s update to the UNFF15.

• That a roadmap be developed which identifies the key dates including; establishment of the

advisory committee (mid-2019), voluntary national report submission (November 2019),

drafting of the flagship publication, consultation, and launch at the 2021 World Forestry

Congress.

Additional considerations

• The report and any resulting social media outputs must be linked to the broader UNFF

communications strategy that utilises partner organisations and influencers to improve

audience reach and engagement.

• While the flagship publication can be launched at World Forestry Congress 2021, there will be

opportunities to promote it at subsequent meetings/conferences to inform forestry-related and

cross-sectoral dialogues and share the progress on the GFGs.

• The report should make effective use of visual representations such as infographics.

• Additional social media products should be developed based on the report (i.e. infographics

used on Twitter and Instagram) to provide novel communications and deliver supporting

products for a deeper dives or snapshots.

• While it is a UNFF publication, consideration should be given for how the Collaborative

Partnership on Forests and FAO Forestry Communicators Network can engage in this process.

• There is a need to consider how case studies can be used, whether they are integrated into the

report or delivered through other mediums.

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PART I.B

KEY PROPOSALS FOR TRANSMISSION TO UNFF15

Based on the technical discussions at UNFF14, the following areas of work, aligned with the provisional

agenda of UNFF15, are proposed for further consideration by the Forum in 2020:

Item 3 – Implementation of the UNSPF 2030

a. Enhanced use of the UNSPF as an integrated framework for forest-based national actions and

international cooperation to accelerate progress towards achieving the SDGs, including SDG 15,

and the objectives of the Paris Agreement.

b. Further recognition by the HLPF of the value of the UNSPF as an integrated framework for

forest-related actions to accelerate achievement of the SDGs.

c. Exploration of opportunities for enhanced synergies between VNCs under the UNSPF and forest-

related NDCs under the Paris Agreement.

d. Strengthened multi-stakeholder engagement and dialogues at national and local levels,

including on GFG6.

e. Active involvement of the private sector (small, medium and large forest enterprises) and

philanthropic organizations in the work of the Forum.

f. Alignment of the CPF Work Plan 2021-2024 with the Forum’s 4POW 2021-2024.

g. UNFF and UNFCCC Secretariats should explore forest-related interlinkages between NDCs under

the Paris Agreement and VNCs under the UNSPF.

Item 4 – MAR

• Scope, content, presentation and target audiences of the Flagship publication and process going

forward.

Item 5 – Means of implementation

a. Stock taking of the effectiveness of the GFFFN to date in assisting countries in the developing

and taking forward forest financing strategies and in facilitating access to forest funding.

b. Status of phase 1 of the clearing house and next steps.

c. Critical importance of additional voluntary contributions to the Forum Trust Fund to support

implementation of the 4POW 2021-2024.

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PART II

THE INPUT BY THE 14th SESSION OF THE UNITED NATIONS FORUM ON FORESTS (UNFF14) TO THE 2019 SESSION OF THE HIGH-LEVEL POLITICAL FORUM ON SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

This input to the 2019 High-Level Political Forum is based on the technical discussions of the United Nations

Forum on Forests on its thematic priorities at its 14th session on 6 and 7 May 2019. It complements the

input provided earlier by the UNFF14 Bureau on 15 March 2019. This input is based on the UNFF14 Chair’s

summary and is not a consensus negotiated outcome of the Forum.

I. Identification of progress, gaps, areas requiring urgent attention, risks and challenges in achieving the

SDGs and in relation to the theme within the area under the purview of UNFF

Urgent need to scale up implementation of forest-based solutions to climate change

Forests can and should make a very significant contribution in the fight against climate change. Successful

implementation of a full range of policy options for forests could reduce greenhouse gas by an estimated

15 GtCO2e a year by 2050, potentially closing the current ‘emissions gap’. This will require effective action

to halt deforestation and forest degradation, to promote sustainable forest management and to increase

the forest area. In addition, harvested wood products can contribute to climate change mitigation through

carbon storage and by replacing products manufactured from more greenhouse-gas-intensive materials

such as concrete or brick, metals or plastics.

Some progress has been made, for example through development of the REDD+ process, aimed at

encouraging countries to reduce emissions from deforestation and forest degradation. However,

deforestation is continuing, mainly as a result of pressures from agriculture, and intensified efforts must

be made to address deforestation from agricultural production such as palm oil, soy and beef.

The recent IPCC Special Report on Global Warming of 1.5 degrees27 highlighted the key role of forests as

a proven method for removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Furthermore, the Ministerial

Katowice Declaration on Forests for the Climate28 stresses the crucial role of forests and forest products

in climate change mitigation and adaptation.

To achieve the necessary change there is a pressing need to:

• integrate climate mitigation and adaptation policies more fully with forest and land use policies,

at all levels

27 See: https://www.ipcc.ch/sr15/ 28 See: https://cop24.gov.pl/fileadmin/user_upload/Ministerial_Katowice_Declaration_on_Forests_for_Climate_OFFICIAL_ENG.pdf

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• mobilize adequate levels of finance from all sources- at present, only minimal funds for climate

change mitigation is available for reducing deforestation and even less is available for adaptation;

• promote more effective forest governance and law enforcement;

• improve scientific understanding of the interactions between forest ecosystems, including soils,

with climate change.

II. Valuable successful experiences and lessons learned on empowering people and ensuring

inclusiveness and equality

Secure tenure is essential to empower people and ensuring inclusiveness and equality

Many of the world’s poorest people live in or near forests and their livelihoods are improved where they

have secure and equitable access to, and control over, forest resources. Secure forest tenure and rights

to use forest resources are a prerequisite for the sustainable management of forests and the sustainable

harvesting of forest products, including non-wood forest products such as food and medicinal plants.

Women play a key role in many countries where their knowledge and experience with forests and their

sustainable management and use is vital. One way to empower women is to make forest tenure more

gender equitable. Reforms should be undertaken where necessary, as for example when customary

tenure arrangements prevent women from owning land. The Voluntary Guidelines on the Responsible

Governance of Tenure of Land, Fisheries and Forests29 are a tool to promote the responsible governance

of tenure.

Extending forest education

Partly as a result of urbanization, increasing numbers of people are unaware of the vital functions of

forests, including their environmental, economic and social benefits. Forest education, especially for

youth and younger generations, have a valuable role to play in developing wider public understanding of

the importance of forests. There is also a need to provide appropriate access to forest-related education

for people who are responsible for the management of forests, or for decision-making and professions

relevant to forests and forest products.

Forest education should be underpinned by relevant scientific knowledge, as well as traditional forest

related knowledge.

There are already many good examples of forest-related education and there is a need to replicate and

scale-up best practice. In order to stimulate action, the CPF is considering an initiative on forest education

aimed at facilitating international discussion, exchanging ideas and identifying key research needs.

29 See: http://www.fao.org/tenure/voluntary-guidelines/en/

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III. Emerging issues likely to affect inclusiveness and equality at various levels

Increasing the visibility of forests’ contributions to inclusiveness and equality

The contribution of forests to many of the SDGs, including those relating to SDG 8 and SDG 10, are

systematically under-estimated and not recognized sufficiently. For instance, more attention should be

paid to the informal forest sector. In many countries, the informal forest sector can be several times larger

than the formal forest sector, but this is seldom reflected in official statistics. As data on forest

employment is often used to characterize the economic contribution of a sector, lack of information about

the informal forest sector can lead to serious under-estimation of the economic value of forests.

Furthermore, people working in the informal sector, such as vulnerable groups and women, are less likely

to have decent working conditions and more likely to face unsafe working practices and uncertainty

regarding working hours and other conditions of service.

It is also important to improve understanding of the full value of the ecosystem services that forests

provide. At present, these ecosystem services are often under-valued because they do not have a market

price. As a consequence, the costs of forest resource depletion caused by deforestation and forest

degradation are not properly taken into account when decisions are made about land use changes, such

as the conversion of forest land to agriculture.

IV. An assessment of the situation regarding the principle of “ensuring that no one is left behind” at the global, regional and national levels Enhancing benefits for local communities from forests Forests play an especially important role in the economy of many poorer countries and rural

communities[, especially the poorer ones. Support for small-scale landholders and indigenous peoples

can enhance the contribution of forests to social inclusion and equality. In addition to timber and

woodfuel, non-wood forest products, such as food, fodder and medicinal plants, are important to the

livelihoods of many rural dwellers. Value-added activities can help improve local livelihoods, but local

communities may not be well integrated into value chains.

In many countries small-scale landholders are farmers as well as forest managers. Sustainable and

inclusive growth can often be enhanced through appropriate policy interventions. These may include

extension services, financial services, infrastructure and access to markets, for example through

initiatives such as Forest and Farm Producer Organizations. Devolving forest management rights to local

communities and smallholders can help secure inclusive and sustainable economic activity.

V. Areas where political guidance by the High-Level Political Forum is required

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Promote the United Nations Strategic Plan for Forests (UNSPF) as a framework for forest-related action

to advance implementation of the 2030 Agenda

Political guidance by the HLPF would help underpin efforts to ensure that the world’s forests are managed

sustainably, for the benefit of current and future generations, by encouraging policy-makers at all levels

to recognize the potential contribution of forests, the importance of cross- sectoral coordination, and the

role of the UNSPF as a framework for forest-related contributions to the implementation of the 2030

Agenda for Sustainable Development. This can be taken forward by promoting the UNSPF and its six

Global Forest Goals more widely as the internationally agreed framework for forest-related action.

VI. Policy recommendations on ways to accelerate progress in empowering people, ensuring

inclusiveness and equality, and achieving SDGs

Promote comprehensive and inclusive partnerships for sustainable forest management

Transparent forest institutions and inclusive approaches which promote equitable participation of all

stakeholders, including marginalized groups, women and youth, are needed to accelerate progress in

empowering people and contributing towards achieving SDGs.

Recognize that adequate means of implementation and effective governance are essential for progress

Sustainable forest management has a major role to play in achieving many of the SDGs. However, progress

is critically dependent upon adequate resources, including finance. Implementation of sustainable forest

management is also critically dependent upon good governance at all levels. These pre-requisites for

sustainable forest management are reflected in Global Forest Goals 4 and 5, which must be realized in

order to accelerate progress towards empowering people and achieving the SDGs through forest-related

measures.

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PART III

AGENDA ITEM 10

INFORMATION ON DESA REFORM PERTAINING TO THE FORUM

1. On 6 May 2019, the Assistant Secretary-General for Policy Coordination and Inter-Agency Affairs

updated the Forum on reform of the Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA) launched in

response to GA resolution 70/299 to improve, inter alia, the effectiveness, efficiency and accountability

of the Department and better align its work with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

2. The ASG noted that as an initial step, DESA has established a new position of Chief Economist.

She also noted that the GA will be considering the following reform measures as proposed by the SG in

his update to Member States on 28 December 2018:

i. Strengthening thought leadership to respond to the new demands of the 2030 Agenda;

ii. Enhancing intergovernmental support for implementation of the 2030 Agenda;

iii. Improving data, statistics and analysis to inform decision-making and enhance collective

accountability for results;

iv. Stepping up capacities to leverage financing for the implementation of the SDGs;

v. Contributing to the provision of strategic and substantive support to the reinvigorated

Resident Coordinator system and the new generation United Nations Country Teams; and

vi. Strengthening the strategies and mechanisms of DESA to enhance external communications

and strategic partnerships, including with the private sector and academia.

3. The ASG emphasized that DESA has been providing the highest level of support to the work of the

Forum and its Secretariat and is committed to continue this support in the future. It is DESA's firm

commitment that the result of the reform process will lead to a more efficient and effective Secretariat,

reflected through the leadership of its work programme and management of both its regular budget and

extrabudgetary resources.

4. On 7 May 2019, the EU, on behalf its Member States, and Canada, on behalf of a cross-regional

group of Member States, each submitted a set of questions to the Secretariat, requesting further

information by DESA during the Forum’s consideration of Agenda item 10 on 8 May 2019.

5. On 8 May 2019, the OIC of the UNFF read a statement to the Forum on behalf of the USG who,

together with the ASG, was attending a meeting of the CEB in Geneva and could not be present in

person. The statement constituted DESA’s response to the questions submitted by the EU and Canada.

The OIC noted that in line with the mission and the vision of the UNSPF, it is critical to the Department’s

overall strengthening to enhance interlinkages of forests and other sustainable development issues,

including water, oceans, energy, and climate change, among others, within the Department’s work on

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the 2030 Agenda. In this context, DESA will continue to provide the highest level of support to the work

of the Forum and its Secretariat in fulfilling the intergovermentally agreed mandates, in particular,

resolution 2015/33 and the UNSPF.

6. The OIC reaffirmed that it is DESA's firm commitment that the result of the reform process will

lead to a more efficient and effective Secretariat, and that the operation and functions of the UNFFS will

not be affected. The Secretariat will continue to provide full support and services to the Forum, as it is

currently doing, and will continue to be responsible to the Under-Secretary-General for the delivery of

its programme of work under the subprogramme on sustainable forest management.

7. The subprogramme will remain independent and will continue to be implemented by the Department

of Economic and Social Affairs, through the UNFF Secretariat. The level of representation of the

Secretariat in different meetings will not change and will continue to reflect the established practice of

prioritization. There will be no impact on the level of activities, outputs and delivery of the UNFF

Secretariat in the future.

8. Regarding the vacant post of the Director of the UNFF Secretariat, the OIC reiterated that the

functions of the post are being reviewed – a process that is normally undertaken when senior posts are

vacated. Member States will be requested to examine these functions in the context of DESA’s 2020

budget proposal, as part of the finalization of the Department’s reform process. Member States will

have an opportunity to examine the Director’s proposed functions in the context of the 2020 budget

proposal.

9. The questions submitted by the EU and Canada and the full responses by the OIC are contained

in the Annex to Part III of the UNFF14 Chair’s Summary.

10. Following the OIC’s statement, interventions were made by the following Members of the

Forum: Algeria, New Zealand, Senegal on behalf of the African Group, the EU on behalf of its Member

States, Australia, Nigeria, Norway, China, USA, Russian Federation, Niger, Japan, Switzerland, Canada,

Germany and Argentina. Algeria also requested for the questions and responses to be shared with the

UNFF14 participants. Interventions were also made by the Major Group for Children and Youth on

behalf of all Major Groups and Major Group on Scientific and Technological Communities.

11. A number of speakers thanked the OIC for his statement on behalf of the USG. While expressing

broad support for UN and DESA reforms, several Members of the Forum expressed concern about the

functionality of the UNFF Secretariat, reaffirmed UNFF Resolution 13/1, emphasized the importance of

the UNFF Secretariat and that strengthening transparency around this process should be a priority. The

following are the highlights of the discussions:

a. The UNFF occupies a unique space, with universal membership, as the only body within the UN

System focusing on and giving voice to global forest policy, taking a holistic approach to the

multi-dimensional contribution of forests to sustainable development.

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b. The Forum is the responsible intergovernmental body for follow up and review of the

implementation of the UNSPF, including providing guidance to and servicing the 15 member CPF

which includes representation from all UN bodies and international organizations beyond the

UN with significant forest-related mandates and/or programmes.

c. The adoption by the GA in 2017 of the first ever UNSPF underscores global recognition of the

tremendous contribution of forests to some of the most pressing issues of the day, including

climate change mitigation and adaption, food security, energy security, water resources and

poverty eradication.

d. The UNSPF is a powerful framework for realizing the contribution of forests and the forest

sector to accelerating achievement of all the SDGs. The vision, principles and commitments set

out in the 2030 Agenda provide the context for the six GFGs and 26 associated targets.

e. The UNSPF also reaches beyond the SDGs to the contribution of forests and the forest sector to

other internationally agreed goals, such as the Aichi Biodiversity Targets and the objectives of

the Paris Agreement.

f. The Forum established the GFFFN, the first and only initiative dedicated to assisting countries to

develop effective and efficient financing strategies involving all financing sources, domestic and

international, public and private, and facilitating access by countries to global forest funding

opportunities.

g. The Forum at its 13th session adopted a Communication and Outreach Strategy for the UNSPF

which includes and builds on the core platform of the annual International Day of Forests and

aims to catalyze innovative and far reaching social media mechanisms as well as tried and true

products and avenues.

h. In 2019, the Forum will see the first round of voluntary national reporting on implementation of

the UNSPF. This reporting will form the basis of a first-ever “flagship” publication on progress

toward achieving the GFGs and targets and the many forest-related SDGs.

i. Given these landmark achievements and long-term commitments by the Forum, there has never

been a better time or greater need for a fully functional, effective and independent Secretariat,

with sufficient human capacity, strong leadership and appropriately resourced to deliver on its

mandated functions.

j. In view of the fact that the Secretariat’s mandate is to support the Forum in all matters related

to the UNSPF, including all matters related to the GFFFN, if the Secretariat’s functions or profile

are diminished, then the effectiveness of the Forum could be diminished in consequence.

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k. Therefore, it is essential that the Secretariat maintain its ability to fully to deliver on its many

and diverse functions as set out in ECOSOC resolutions in 2000, 2006 and 2015 and in the

UNSPF. It is also essential that the Secretariat maintains its ability to fully and effectively

represent the interests of the Forum in intergovernmental for a, with governments and with CPF

counterparts, and that the subprogram entitled “Sustainable forest management” remain intact

and independent. The current direct reporting lines between the Director of the UNFFS and the

USG should also be maintained.

l. Concern was expressed that the secretariat maintains the ability to fully manage its own budget.

m. Filling the position of Director of the Secretariat, as soon as possible, is essential to ensure

consistent leadership, representation and communication, as well as a clear signal of

commitment by the UN and DESA to the continued functioning and visibility and of the UNFF as

unique functional commission and subsidiary body of ECOSOC with universal membership.

n. Considering the concerns expressed by many Member States about lack of transparency and

information to date, the timely provision of information will be paramount going forward. The

USG is requested to keep Member States fully and regularly informed on all aspects of the DESA

reform process pertaining to the UNFF.

o. The UNFF14 Chair is requested to fully reflect the points and views expressed today in the

UNFF14 Chair’s Summary. DESA is also requested to convey Part III of the Summary, including its

Annex, to appropriate bodies in the UN who are reviewing, considering and deciding on DESA

reform, including the CPC, ACABQ and Fifth Committee.

12. The OIC confirmed that internal DESA lines of reporting between the Director of the Secretariat

and the USG would remain unchanged. One speaker asked that if the Director were unavailable for an

event, did this mean the USG would fill in. The OIC responded that it would depend on the level of the

event and prioritization of events. Another delegation asked for clarity on this matter given the

differences in D1 and D2 rankings. The OIC said he would take the question back to the USG.

13. Some of these speakers expressed the view that down-grading the Director position from a D2

to a D1 would negatively affect the functioning of both the Secretariat and the Forum, including in terms

of fund raising, private sector engagement and implementation of the UNSPF. Four Member States

specifically requested that the position of the Director of the UNFF Secretariat remains at the D2 level. A

request was also made to the USG through the OIC to provide a cost-benefit analysis of DESA reform

options under consideration as pertaining to the UNFF.

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ANNEX TO PART III

Fourteenth session of the United Nations Forum on Forests

Item 10: Information on the reform of DESA pertaining to the UN Forum on Forests

8 May 2019

Requests for further updates on DESA reform from the United Nations Forum on Forests

1. What are the options considered in DESA reform regarding the UNFFS? (European Union) What are the actions/options being undertaken with UNFFS in the context of the DESA reform? (Canada30) What are the results of the cost/benefit analysis of each of these options? (Canada) As noted by the Assistant Secretary-General in her update on DESA reform under this agenda item earlier this week, the General Assembly will be considering the following reform measures as proposed by the Secretary-General in his update to Member States on 28 December 2018.

vii. Strengthening thought leadership to respond to the new demands of the 2030 Agenda; viii. Enhancing intergovernmental support for implementation of the 2030 Agenda;

ix. Improving data, statistics and analysis to inform decision-making and enhance collective accountability for results;

x. Stepping up capacities to leverage financing for the implementation of the SDGs; xi. Contributing to the provision of strategic and substantive support to the reinvigorated

Resident Coordinator system and the new generation United Nations Country Teams; and

xii. Strengthening the strategies and mechanisms of DESA to enhance external communications and strategic partnerships, including with the private sector and academia.

Such options are being considered at the Departmental level to better align DESA’s substantive expertise with the 2030 Agenda as mandated in resolution 70/299, taking into full account all its other important existing intergovernmental mandates. In this regard and in line with the mission and the vision of the United Nations Strategic Plan for Forests, it is critical to the Department’s overall strengthening, to enhance interlinkages of forests and other sustainable development issues, including water, oceans, energy, and climate change, among others, within the Department’s work on the 2030 Agenda. DESA will continue to provide the highest level of support to the work of the Forum and its Secretariat in fulfilling the intergovermentally agreed mandates, in particular, resolution 2015/33 and the UN Strategic Plan for Forests.

2. What are the potential implications of each of these options on budget and human resources and on reporting lines of the UNFFS? How would these affect the operations and functions of the UNFFS? (European Union) If the subprogramme of forests is merged into another Division, what are the lines of reporting? Would the current direct reporting lines to SG/ASG be maintained? (Canada)

30 Submitting the questions from a cross regional network of Member States

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It is DESA's firm commitment that the result of the reform process will lead to a more efficient and effective Secretariat, reflected through the leadership of its work programme and management of both its regular budget and extrabudgetary resources. The operation and functions of the UNFFS will not be affected and the Secretariat will continue to provide full support and services to the Forum, as it is currently doing. The Secretariat of the United Nations Forum on Forests will continue to be responsible to the Under-Secretary-General for the delivery of its programme of work under the subprogramme on sustainable forest management.

3. What are the potential implications regarding the representation of UNFF in different meetings if the level of the Head of the UNFFS changes vis a vis the government and other international organisations? (European Union) As per the update by the Assistant Secretary-General for Policy Coordination and Interagency Affairs, DESA has been providing the highest level of support to the work of the Forum and its Secretariat and is committed to continue this support in the future. The level of representation of the Secretariat in different meetings will not change and will continue to reflect the established practice of prioritization. It is important to note that since the conclusion of the 13th session, the work programme of the Secretariat has continued to be delivered in a responsive and dedicated manner. The Under-Secretary-General fulfilled a commitment to support the work of the Secretariat, by personally participating in the substantive activities of the Forum and its Secretariat. He remains fully committed to this level of support of the work of the Forum and its Secretariat in the future.

4. Can you confirm that the UNFFS capacity to fulfil its functions (in line with Resolution 2015/33) will not be weakened regardless of the outcome of the DESA reform? (European Union) Will the subprogramme on forests remain intact as a separate division under DESA or be fully merged into another DESA division? And which division? (Canada) DESA attaches significant importance to the work of the Forum and its Secretariat. In this regard, the Department of Economic and Social Affairs remains fully committed to strengthening its subprogramme on sustainable forest management and to deliver on all its mandates. The subprogramme will remain independent and will continue to be implemented by the Department of Economic and Social Affairs, through the UNFF Secretariat. As noted in the update by the Assistant Secretary-General for Policy Coordination and Interagency Affairs, all of the Secretariat’s programmed outputs for the current biennium are on track to be delivered. There will be no impact on the level of activities, outputs and delivery of the UNFF Secretariat in the future. Furthermore, DESA remains firmly committed to upholding the provisions of resolution 13/1 of the Forum’s 13th session, including, “the importance of maintaining the current and future ability of the United Nations Forum on Forests and the subprogramme entitled “Sustainable forest management” of the programme entitled “Economic and social affairs” to fulfil the Forum’s important mandate and role, and reaffirms their intergovernmental agreed mandates.”

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5. For what reasons does the position of Director of UNFFS has not been advertised yet? When do you plan to fill the position? (European Union) At this time, and as per the update by Assistant Secretary-General for Policy Coordination and Interagency Affairs, the Director position in the Secretariat of the United Nations Forum on Forests remains vacant. As per standard procedure, the functions of the vacant post are being reviewed – a process that is normally undertaken when senior posts are vacated. Member States will also be requested to examine these functions in the context of DESA’s 2020 budget proposal, as part of the finalization of the Department’s reform process.

6. In a scenario of a merging into another Division, how would be the person leading the UNFF matters ensure the allocation of resources (core budget and human resources) and maintenance of accountability to carry out the ECOSOC resolutions pertaining to UNFF? (Canada) The Under-Secretary-General, as Head of the Department, has been delegated the authority to manage the resources of the entire Department. The Director responsible for the Secretariat of the United Nations Forum on Forests will continue to be responsible to the Under-Secretary-General for the management of regular budget and extrabudgetary resources and delivery of its programme of work and ECOSOC resolutions pertaining to UNFF. In addition, the allocation of the UNFF Secretariat’s resources will continue to be presented to Member States separately in the Department’s annual programme budget.

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PART IV

INDICATIVE LIST OF POTENTIAL INTERSESSIONAL ACTIVITIES BY THE SECRETARIAT

BETWEEN UNFF14 AND UNFF15

Thematic priorities

• Contribute to inputs by the CPF and its members to the “nature-based solutions” component of the

2019 Climate Action Summit to be convened by the Secretary General on 23 September.

• Contribute to the preparatory work of the 2020 UNGA Biodiversity summit and the forum s input to

the development of the post 2020 Global Biodiversity Framework.

Communication &Outreach Strategy

a. Closely collaboration with DESA Strategic Planning and Communication Services to incorporate

forest-related messaging in the social media outreach conducted by DESA for HLPF 2019 and the

Climate Action Summit.

b. Collaborate with CPF partners, in particular the CBD, to prepare communication materials in

celebration of IDF 2020 (forests and biodiversity) and share these materials with national focal

points, stakeholders and regional partners, including communicators networks.

VNCs

a. Prepare a streamlined synthesis of VNCs communicated to date aligned with specific GFGs and

targets.

b. Develop, in consultation with Members of the Forum, of a simple format for use by countries on

a voluntary basis in communicating their VNCs.

MAR/flagship publication

a. Organize with FAO an expert meeting early on to further consider data issues related to Tier 3

indicators of the global core set of forest-related indicators.

b. In consultation with interested Members of the Forum, establish an informal advisory

committee to take forward the flagship publication, taking into account the outcome of the

brainstorming meeting consultations hosted by Australia during UNFF14.

GFFFN

• Conduct a stock taking of accomplishments of the GFFFN since 2015, including [regarding-JUSCANZ]

the development of national forest financing strategies and access to global funds and finances

leveraged.

• Organize a follow up expert panel to develop a more fulsome plan towards a step-wise and simple

approach toward establishment of the Clearinghouse.

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• Supports a cost benefit analysis of different options for the operationalization of the clearinghouse

including potential partnerships with other entities.

Global forest policy coherence

• Provided it would add value to previous work, the CPF should consider preparing a study to further

examine the coherence, complementarity and coverage of forest-related programmes within and

across the UN system and CPF member organizations, building on the capacity mapping exercise and

other relevant work by CPF.

4POW 2021-2024

• Elaborate draft elements for the 4POW 2021-2024 in consultation with Members of the Forum, taking into account the post-2020 HLPF cycle.