ENB:04:44
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ARTICLE 1 -- USE OF TERMS:
The problem of definitions dates
back to INCD-2. There were three problems. The first related to the
definition of desertification and the recognition of the problem as
a global issue whose effects are linked to climate change. The
second problem related to listing countries in several categories,
such as affected countries, affected developing countries,
countries needing assistance, and other countries in a position to
provide assistance. The third problem concerned the development of
a glossary of the terms used in the text. Most of these issues were
resolved at this session. The Kassas Group agreed to use the
definition of desertification provided in Chapter 12 of Agenda 21,
which makes no reference to "global dimension" or any links to
climate change. The need for a list of countries was deemed
unnecessary since ecosystems change over time. The issue of
categories remains unresolved. The G-77 maintains that the UNCED
process only recognized two categories of countries -- developed
and developing -- and that the Convention should only incorporate
these two. No decision was taken on the need for a glossary, but if
and when it is considered necessary, the Conference of the Parties
will be responsible for its formulation.