The third session of the Intergovernmental Conference (IGC-3) on an international legally binding instrument on marine biodiversity on the high seas (more commonly known as BBNJ) convened for its first day, with delegates hearing opening statements and beginning their considerations of cross-cutting issues.

In the corridors, delegates and participants exchanged ideas on the potential trade-offs between the timely conclusion of the IGC negotiations and the quality of the new treaty. While some cautioned against sticking rigidly to “self-imposed” deadlines, others underscored the urgency of addressing the issues under discussion, stressing that “speed matters.” Read full report

The 18th meeting of the Conference of the Parties of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora continued deliberations late into the night, with Committee II reconvening for a special evening session.

In Committee II, most of the morning session and part of the afternoon session in Committee II covered agenda items related to the role of rural communities and their engagement in CITES processes. Canada highlighted ways they involve rural and indigenous local communities in CITES and other processes. The Namibian Association of Community-Based Natural Resource Management Support Organisations (NACSO) emphasized that rural communities are the first line of defense against poaching and their involvement is essential to conserving wildlife.

Committee I continued its discussions by addressing several marine species, including marine turtles, sharks, and rays. On eels, the US proposed text to clarify that traceability measures would apply to both live and dead eels. Algeria noted the country’s lack of expertise in conducting an inventory and requested technical support from the Animals Committee. Read full coverage