Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) for Negotiators

Background

The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) sets the global legal framework and guiding principles to conserve nature, promote the sustainable use of biological resources, and ensure the fair and equitable sharing of benefits derived from the utilisation of genetic resources.

The adoption of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (see CBD COP Decision 15/4) sets ambitious targets to halt and reverse biodiversity loss by 2030 and achieve a “nature-positive” world by 2050. There is an urgent recognition of the reciprocal link between climate change and biodiversity loss as two mutually reinforcing crises.

Although three decades have passed since the CBD came into effect, biodiversity loss has not only persisted but intensified. According to the IPBES global assessment report,

The biosphere, upon which humanity as a whole depends, is being altered to an unparalleled degree across all spatial scales. Biodiversity-the diversity within species, between species and of ecosystems–is declining faster than any time in human history.

The Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) region represents one of the most biodiverse and environmentally significant mountain regions in the world. The region consists of major ecoregions and four global biodiversity hotspots, with 40% under formal protection; however, around 67% of its ecoregions and 39% of its biodiversity hotspots remain outside protected areas and are exposed to multiple drivers of change.

Temperature rise, glacial melt, and erratic monsoons directly and indirectly threaten the livelihoods of nearly 2 billion people living within the region and downstream. Despite this, the specific vulnerabilities of mountain regions are not always comprehensively addressed or reflected in CBD negotiations and relevant implementation frameworks. There is, therefore, increasing recognition of the importance of ensuring that the unique realities of HKH countries are reflected in global biodiversity negotiations.

Navigating biodiversity multilateral processes requires a clear understanding of science, public international law including international environmental law, and reporting mechanisms. Furthermore, negotiators navigate a scenario with varying national circumstances and priorities, particularly in issues such as adaptation and finance. Delegates from the HKH region, which spans Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, India, Myanmar, Nepal, and Pakistan, face the added complexity of balancing diverse socioeconomic contexts with the necessity of preserving delicate ecosystems.

This workshop is designed to respond to these challenges by strengthening the strategic and technical capacities of HKH negotiators. With a particular focus on the CBD’s Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and preparation for the 17th meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the CBD (COP-17), the workshop will provide a platform for peer-to-peer learning, regional exchange, and the identification of regional trends and priorities. Through a blend of expert presentations, practical exercises, and negotiation simulation, participants will enhance skills to raise the profile of mountain biodiversity issues and the pressing needs of the HKH region within the CBD and its related processes.

This workshop is organised in collaboration with the JSW Law School, Bhutan, the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD).

Objectives

• Deepen understanding of the CBD, the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF), and related processes, including the Convention’s bodies, its protocols, the role of the CBD Secretariat, and resources available to Parties.
• Expand knowledge on the outcomes from COP-16, SBSTTA-27 and SBSTTA-28, and SBI-6 and SBI-7, as well as key agenda items for COP-17.
• Support negotiators in strengthening their technical capacity on substantive agenda items of COP-17, including (a) resource mobilization and financial mechanism, and (b) planning, monitoring, reporting and review, including global review of collective progress in the implementation of the KMGBF.
• Support negotiators in enhancing and practicing their negotiation and presentation skills.
• Enhance national and collective positioning on HKH-specific priorities, including mountain biodiversity, indigenous peoples and local communities, and finance.
• Encourage regional exchange, cooperation, collaboration, and peer-to-peer learning.

Agenda

Programme of Activities_CBD Negotiators Training