The 9th Trondheim Conference on Biodiversity will bring together decision makers and experts from around the world to discuss the global biodiversity framework being developed as a follow up to the Strategic Plan for Biodiversity 2011-2020 (post-2020 framework). The Conference aims to support the process established by the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), by providing an opportunity for major players to discuss key issues informally. It is organized by the Norwegian Government, in partnership with the CBD Secretariat, UN Environment Programme (UNEP), the Food and Agriculture Organization of the UN (FAO), the Global Environment Facility (GEF), the UN Development Programme (UNDP), and the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).

Building upon multiple sources of information, including the IPBES Global Assessment on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services, the Conference will facilitate a shared understanding of key knowledge areas, and help to ensure that the process for developing the post-2020 framework is knowledge-based, just, and inclusive.

The Conference will be interactive in form, with all participants expected to contribute actively to discussions. Participation is by invitation only. Sessions will address:

• Key findings from recent global, regional and thematic assessments, and their implications for developing the post-2020 framework, with a focus on challenges and what needs to change to respond to key drivers of biodiversity loss;
• The 2050 Vision for Biodiversity of "Living in harmony with nature," with focus on scenario and transformative change discussions, including interactive exercises on visioning the future;
• Moving away from "business as usual" in developing and implementing the post-2020 framework, in order to achieve change;
• Increasing action on biodiversity and ecosystem services as an interconnected asset for sustainability in other sectors;
• Sharing experiences and good practices;
• Developing the post-2020 framework, including by building on the CBD experience, and considering the needs and interests of other relevant processes and sectors; and
• Communication and outreach needs following adoption of the post-2020 framework.

The Conference Co-chairs will produce a report with conclusions and recommendations, which will be forwarded to relevant processes, including the CBD Open-ended Working Group on the post-2020 framework.

This Conference, to be held from 2-5 July in Trondheim, Norway, is the ninth in a series of Trondheim Conferences on Biodiversity, aiming to create opportunities for increasing understanding among stakeholders about issues on the biodiversity agenda.