EARTH NEGOTIATIONS BULLETIN PUBLISHED BY THE INTERNATIONAL INSTITUTE FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT (IISD) WRITTEN AND EDITED BY: PAMELA CHASEK ANNE CHARLOTTE DE FONTAUBERT LANGSTON JAMES GOREE VI "KIMO" A REPORT ON UNCED FOLLOW-UP DISCUSSIONS AT THE 49TH UNITED NATIONS GENERAL ASSEMBLY Vol. 3 No. 5 22 October 1994 UN GENERAL ASSEMBLY HIGHLIGHTS 19-21 OCTOBER 1994 The 49th United Nations General Assembly's Second Committee considered Agenda Item 89, "Environment and Sustainable Development," from 19-21 October 1994. Topics of discussion included the implementation of decisions and recommendations of the UN Conference on Environment and Development (document A/49/463), the protection of global climate for present and future generations of mankind (A/49/485), and the sustainable use and conservation of the marine living resources of the high seas (A/49/254 and A/49/522). Discussions on related issues, including the Convention to Combat Desertification and the Conference on the Sustainable Development of Small Island Developing States, will be discussed officially in the General Assembly plenary, although several delegates referred to them in their statements. Most delegates noted a number of areas where progress has been made over the last year, including: the entry into force of both the Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Convention on Biological Diversity; the negotiation and adoption of the Convention to Combat Desertification; the successful conclusion of the Conference on the Sustainable Development of Small Island Developing States; the restructuring and the replenishment of the Global Environment Facility (GEF); and the conclusion of the GATT Uruguay Round and its decisions in the area of trade and environment. Many delegates stated, however, that in spite of these accomplishments much more needs to be done to see Agenda 21 translated from words to action, especially in the areas of financial resources, transfer of technology, poverty alleviation and changes in production and consumption patterns. WEDNESDAY, 19 OCTOBER 1994 Under-Secretary-General for Policy Coordination and Sustainable Development Nitin Desai opened the debate by noting that the consideration of this agenda item provides us with an opportunity to take stock of the pace of implementation of the commitments entered into at the Earth Summit. Since the Second Committee met last year, the Commission on Sustainable Development (CSD) has held its second session. The high level of participation in the work of the Commission and the commitment of the NGO community are a source of great encouragement. The Inter-Agency Committee on Sustainable Development and the High-Level Advisory Board on Sustainable Development, which is currently holding its third meeting, are both functioning and represent the major institutional developments out of the Rio process. Desai also noted other achievements since Rio, including the negotiation of the Convention to Combat Desertification. On 14-15 October 1994, 86 countries signed the Convention in Paris. The Framework Convention on Climate Change has 96 parties and entered into force on 21 March 1994. The INC is making good progress towards the first Conference of the Parties in Berlin next year. The Global Conference on the Sustainable Development of Small Island Developing States was a landmark event that recognized the importance of a systematic effort to help SIDS move towards sustainability. In addition to these negotiations, there are other things happening with regard to coastal zone management, marine pollution, toxic chemicals, the ban on the export of hazardous wastes from OECD to non-OECD countries, and the preparations for the first Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity. Nevertheless, there is a sense that the momentum of Rio is being lost. Some perceive that there is a lack of implementation on the commitments on finance and technology transfer, and this is true. In the year after Rio, ODA declined by 10%. He urged governments to demonstrate greater political will and commitment to action. Desai also highlighted the important role of the non-governmental community in UNCED follow-up and the work of the CSD. Hans Corell, Counsel for the UN Office of Legal Affairs, presented two reports, one that deals with the issue of drift-net pelagic fishing and the other with the UN Conference on Straddling Fish Stocks and Highly Migratory Fish Stocks. On the issue of drift-net fishing, he said that the report of the Secretary General, as contained in document A/49/469, is intended as a follow-up on activities inconsistent with General Assembly Resolution 46/215. This document is intended as an implementation report and will be followed by subsequent annual reviews. In spite of the resolution, the document shows that drift-net fishing is still being carried out. With regard to the Conference on Straddling Fish Stocks and Highly Migratory Fish Stocks, a report of the third and fourth sessions of this Conference appears in document A/49/522 and a revised negotiated text submitted by the Chair, Satya Nandan, is appended to this report. The new text appears in the form of a "draft agreement" and the issue of the form of the document was discussed at length in the last session of the Conference. While there was no consensus on the question of the form, it had become the general feeling that there needs to be a legally-binding outcome to the Conference. ALGERIA (ON BEHALF OF THE G-77 and CHINA): Mourad Ahmia said that it has now been two years since the commitments of Rio and that the results of the implementation of Agenda 21 have been disappointing. The principle of common but differentiated responsibilities has not been translated concretely, and there have been no great signs of new and additional funding and transfer of environmentally-sound technology. The developing countries feel bound by their commitments taken at Rio and they have a huge political interest in the implementation of these measures. The G-77 is happy that the Framework Convention on Climate Change has finally entered into force, but urged the parties to not go further than the original mandate. Distinct categories of parties should have distinct responsibilities and any attempt to undermine this principle through innovative concepts such as that of joint implementation would have negative repercussions. GERMANY (ON BEHALF OF THE EU): Dr. Wolfgang Runge said that there must be more concrete commitments by the international community with regard to sustainable development. The EU also feels that the working methods of the CSD must improve -- the CSD needs dialogue instead of debates and an integrated approach to the interrelated questions of sustainable development. Close cooperation with NGOs and the business community are also of great importance. The CSD should be the political motor of sustainable development. With regard to the Convention to Combat Desertification, the EU feels that the process of elaborating national action programmes in developing countries is of the highest priority and the EU is committed to continuing its assistance. The EU believes that it will be able to find solutions to the remaining questions in the Conference on Straddling and Highly Migratory Fish Stocks. The concepts of biological unity of the fish stocks concerned and the compatibility of conservation and management measures applicable in areas under national jurisdiction and in the adjacent high seas, as well as effective enforcement provisions, are crucial elements to protect the stocks for the next generation. ICELAND: Amb. Ossur Skarphedinsson, on behalf of the Nordic countries, highlighted the success of the International Conference on Population and Development as well as the importance of the Social Summit, the Women's Conference and Habitat II. Among the most important means to reduce the pressure on the environment are radical changes in the prevailing patterns of consumption and production. He also mentioned the importance of promoting sustainable development though trade. Countries must take effective steps towards rendering their economic policies conducive to sustainable development and constructive collaboration must be established to make trade and environment mutually supportive. The Nordic countries have been following actively the fish stocks Conference and believe that, although there are still outstanding issues, a satisfactory solution can be found and the Conference can be successfully concluded next year. Particular attention should also be paid to the issue of pollution by so-called "persistent organic pollutants." ARGENTINA: Ambassador Raúl Estrada-Oyuela noted that although progress has been made in sustainable development, less progress has been made in the area of financial resources. The sustainable use of the resources of the high seas and protection of global climate are two issues of particular concern to Argentina. In a world where broad sectors of humanity are deprived of basic sustenance we cannot continue to witness the disorderly exploitation of the high seas. He urged the international community to agree on an international legally-binding instrument that establishes an effective regime for the preservation of living resources in the high seas and the interests of coastal States. With regard to climate change, although much progress has been made, additional measures may be needed. The participation of the developing countries in the Convention needs to be clearer -- the only quantitative commitment is that the developed countries must reduce emissions to 1990 levels. Progress has been made in defining the financial mechanism of the Convention. It is important to ensure that the Conference of the Parties (COP) is the organ that sets policies, criteria for eligibility and programme priorities. MALAYSIA: Amb. Razali Ismail said that the CSD monitors worldwide progress in the implementation of Agenda 21 and is widely acknowledged as the highest intergovernmental forum for discussing sectoral and cross-sectoral issues relating to sustainable development. While at the organizational level considerable progress has been made, much more remains to be done on the substantive level. Sustainable development for the South is contingent upon the provision of new and additional financial resources by the developed North, but so far the US$2 billion replenishment of the GEF is the only new money available and it is a mere fraction of figures estimated at Rio. The issue of transfer of technology also remains plagued. While the North claims that all countries have a right to share such natural resources as forests, it will not allow the sharing of man-made resources. He also highlighted the importance of the participation of women, NGOs and indigenous people. REPUBLIC OF KOREA: Wonil Cho expressed satisfaction with the CSD and its year-round intersessional work. He informed the Committee that the Republic of Korea will be hosting a meeting of experts on access to and dissemination of environmentally sound technologies from 30 November - 2 December 1994. With regard to climate change, he expressed regret that even after the 10th INC meeting no agreements have been made on financial assistance and technology transfer and the criteria and method of joint implementation. With regard to the Conference on Straddling and Highly Migratory Fish Stocks, he stressed the need for the mandate of the Conference to be carried out within the framework of UNCLOS. The Chair's revised draft should reflect greater balance between the positions of coastal and distant water fishing States. The sections dealing with new participants, compliance and enforcement, port State jurisdiction, and the abuse of rights and enclaves should be further improved during the upcoming sessions. He expressed concern about the issue of arrest and detention by coastal States and port States. The outcome of the Conference should be the formulation of appropriate recommendations rather than a legally-binding instrument. AUSTRIA: Gerhard Doujak expressed Austria's concern about preserving the spirit of Rio. The Rio Conference laid down a milestone for the implementation of sustainable development. These goals more than ever demand unconditional commitment by all partners. He thanked the Secretariat for producing its bi-monthly "CSD Update," which makes the intersessional process more transparent. Austria will continue its initiatives on sustainable development and international law. With regard to the Climate Change Convention, commitments must be strengthened. A reduction in CO2 emissions after the year 2000 is necessary to achieve the goals of the Convention. He appealed to other countries to consider adopting the Toronto Targets. UNITED STATES: Herman Gallegos said that the US shares the view that review, encouragement and appropriate support at the international level for the implementation of Agenda 21 will continue to come primarily through the CSD. The last session of the CSD highlighted the need for some improvements in the way it carries out its work, including: the use of a set of indicators of sustainable development that would simplify national reporting and facilitate comparisons; encouraging and facilitating the preparation and use of national sustainable development strategies; and more effective coordination of the UN system's support for the implementation of Agenda 21, including recommendations from the recent International Conference on Population and Development and the upcoming Social Summit, Women's Conference and Habitat II. Intersessional activities should continue to be characterized by freedom and flexibility. Any effort to restrain or restrict intersessional activity, for example by imposing unnecessary bureaucratic formalities, will be counter-productive. He announced that President Clinton will be hosting the Summit of the Americas in Miami, Florida, on 9-10 December, with sustainable development as one of the three major themes. JORDAN: Faris Ammarin said that in the context of the implementation of Agenda 21, the three components that need to be respected are human integrity, environmental integrity and the principle of economic efficiency. RUSSIAN FEDERATION: The representative said that on the whole a great deal has been achieved and the CSD is working well. In this process, a number of major legal instruments have been harmonized or are already in force. He called on greater integration and cooperation between the CSD, ECOSOC, the Bretton Woods institutions and other organizations. He confirmed that the outcome of the fish stocks Conference should be of a binding nature. THURSDAY MORNING, 20 OCTOBER 1994 CANADA: Amb. John Fraser noted that although significant progress has been made in the two years since UNCED, there is still great distance to go. The Conference on Straddling and Highly Migratory Fish Stocks has made progress. The tabling of a draft agreement in convention form reflects the consensus to achieve a binding agreement. An effective regime for high seas fisheries should include effective conservation management measures, appropriate surveillance and control, and binding dispute resolution mechanisms. To implement the Conventions on Climate Change and Biological Diversity, Canada is preparing a national action programme on climate change and is organizing a biodiversity technology fair. With regard to the CSD, Canada supports the idea of convening panel discussions, the participation of ministers of development and planning as well as sectoral issue ministers, and greater opportunities for governments and major groups to showcase national reports. The 1995 session of the CSD presents the opportunity to define more clearly what needs to be achieved by 1997. Canada supports the use of intersessional meetings. He proposed that, where possible, draft texts for the CSD should be prepared in advance of the session, perhaps shortly after intersessional meetings. Last week, Canada and Malaysia played host to the Intergovernmental Working Group on Forests. In March 1995, Canada and the Philippines will host a meeting on toxic substances. The CSD needs indicators of success and open and inclusive dialogue. NEW ZEALAND: John McKinnon said that the objective of restoring the environment and sustainable development has not slipped from the international agenda, but the focus must remain sharp in order to make the best use of available resources. While the CSD has inherited the Rio mantle, it is still not really the voice of the post-Rio world and its functions need to be better defined. It should be both an instrument for review of the national implementation of Agenda 21 by individual States and serve the role of a "clearing house" for further international negotiations. He emphasized the importance of preparatory work between the annual meetings of the Commission. He also said that the Climate Change Convention needs to be strengthened. He expressed satisfaction with the work of the Straddling and Highly Migratory Fish Stocks Conference and concern on the report that drift-net fishing still takes place in the Mediterranean and the Bay of Biscay. COLOMBIA: Amb. Julio Londoño said that in Rio it was recognized that international cooperation is crucial for reaching the targets of Agenda 21. There have been various obstacles and uncertainty. The industrialized countries have not fulfilled their commitments. Some progress has been made at the sectoral level, but these outstanding achievements could be spoiled if the developed countries do not remove restrictions on financial and technological flows. A favorable international environment is fundamental in order to move along the sustainable development path. Only if external obstacles preventing a sustained economic reactivation are removed can the developing countries successfully apply environmental protection policies. MEXICO: The representative said that the CSD has allowed a close monitoring of the follow-up to UNCED and the progress that has been made in the various areas. Still there is a great deal to do since the necessary political impetus apparent at the high-level segment needs to be translated into concrete international action. An important step was taken by linking the issues of transfer of technology and resources to specific themes. With regard to fisheries, he said that the elaboration of a new draft agreement should be carried out in coordination with the work of the FAO on the Code for Responsible Fishing. TUNISIA: Amb. Slaheddine Abdellah stressed the human right to a sound environment. Tunisia welcomes the adoption of the Desertification Convention. One must recall that the fight against desertification requires technical and financial commitments. The Convention should be a way of mobilizing the potential of affected countries. Tunisia and Africa hope for the success of this Convention to launch a world partnership to stop desertification that threatens the ecological balance in the world. In November, Tunisia will host a Conference on Sustainable Development in the Mediterranean region. This conference will contribute to a renewed Plan of Action for the Mediterranean. CHILE: The delegate said that despite past successes, it is still necessary to make progress on the issues of financial resources and transfer of technology. In this area, no adequate progress has been made and efforts to that end should include all the sectors of society, including the private sector. From an institutional standpoint, the task of the CSD is to strengthen the resolve of the international community and to retain its democratic and concessional character. BANGLADESH: The representative said that developing countries lack the financial resources and technology to implement the provisions of Agenda 21. Continued and enhanced cooperation and solidarity are essential to make UNCED follow-up actions successful. The question of finance and the issue of technology transfer on concessional and preferential terms should receive priority and the commitments of the international community must be implemented. The establishment of the CSD is encouraging, but measures taken so far have fallen short of commitments. The intersessional working groups should work effectively and help implement Agenda 21. Bangladesh has signed the Convention to Combat Desertification and calls for early implementation of its provisions. CHINA: Yan Yanyi said there is still no sign of improvement with respect to the various negative factors that seriously constrain the efforts of developing countries to achieve the goals of economic development and environmental protection. The question of environment and trade has increasingly become a hot point in the field of international environment and development. The environmental question should not become a reason to engage in protectionism. With regard to the Convention on Climate Change, China does not approve of any attempt designed to make the developing countries accept concrete restrictive targets through amending the convention or carrying out negotiations on new protocols. With regard to the Conference on Straddling and Highly Migratory Fish Stocks, China holds that: the work of the Conference should be consistent with UNCLOS; no agreement has been reached on the form of the final document; developing countries should receive special assistance; coordinated and integrated conservation and management measures should be adopted in the entire range of the stocks; more flexibility should be given to the provisions for regional organizations; no unilateral action should be allowed on the high seas under the pretext of conserving and managing the fish stocks; and there should be greater coordination among UN specialized agencies to avoid duplication of efforts. ROMANIA: The representative addressed the issues of national implementation, the CSD and the GEF. He called for both vertical integration, between the Secretariat and the other organizations, and horizontal integration among the thematic elements. He expressed his satisfaction with the work of the CSD and said that sustainable development should go beyond the Rio agreements and consist of lasting human development, peace, economic growth, social justice and democracy. PANAMA: On behalf of the Central American States, the delegate highlighted the importance of forest development and identified the rich biodiversity of fauna and flora in this region. The Central American countries believe that the international community must meet its financial commitments in order to respond to new urgencies. He also stressed the importance of a fresh approach to sustainable development that takes into account human characteristics, new technologies and appropriate production patterns. THURSDAY AFTERNOON, 20 OCTOBER 1994 POLAND: Wojciech Ponikiewski said that the CSD should have the highest political profile and other ministers, including ministers of finance, should participate in its work. The CSD needs active dialogue and an integrative approach. Poland hopes that the new set of guidelines elaborated by the Secretariat will make the preparation of national reports easier and improve their comparability. Poland supports the need for indicators, but any situation leading to simplistic conclusions drawn from such measures will have to be avoided. The GEF budget does not meet expectations, but if recipient countries prepare good projects they will, in a way, oblige contributors to increase their pledges. There is also a need for a more focused approach in the sharing of environmentally sound technologies and Poland is ready to contribute to this endeavor. TURKEY: Levent Murat Burhan commended the work done by the CSD so far and hoped that a broader perspective has been brought into its work on sustainable development. He announced that Turkey will continue to support the GEF in the amount of about 4 million SDR. The contracting parties to the Convention for the Protection of the Mediterranean Sea Against Pollution have decided to prepare an Agenda 21 for the Mediterranean region. Turkey is also engaged in the preparation of another Agenda 21 with the Central Asian republics and Balkan countries. He invited all related international, financial and other organizations, especially the GEF, UNDP, UNEP and the World Bank, to support these efforts. BULGARIA: The representative said that he adhered to the goals and commitments of Agenda 21 but that he shared the view that a lot still remains to be done to achieve the necessary momentum. He said that other aspects of sustainable development should be incorporated, as is the case with the International Conference on Population and Development, the Social Summit, the Women's Conference and Habitat II. He supported debt relief initiatives and indicated that his Government had tabled a proposal for a debt for nature swap, which he hoped will be implemented. He called for greater transfer of resources and capacity building, as well as the transfer of environmentally sound technology on concessional terms. PAPUA NEW GUINEA: Amb. Utula Samana highlighted the importance of biodiversity in the search for long term sustainability. Biodiversity is and should be treated as a resource and must be developed. Member States of the South Pacific Forum have played an active part in the negotiations of the Conference on Straddling and Highly Migratory Fish Stocks and are also concerned with the issue of transboundary movement of toxic wastes in their region. He said that the South Pacific is the largest nuclear-free zone in the world and he emphasized the importance of regional efforts and initiatives. SRI LANKA: Amb. Stanley Kalpage said that Agenda 21 has not been fully implemented by the developing countries because they have not been supported with means of implementation. Little progress has been made with regard to trade and private sector flows, which are important sources of funding. The CSD could play a leading role in developing a consensus to elaborate rules to ensure that international trade is free and fair and an appropriate linkage between the CSD and the WTO should be established. Efforts to address sustainable development will only be achieved if poverty and unemployment are addressed globally. With regard to the Conference on Straddling and Highly Migratory Fish Stocks, Sri Lanka believes that regional organizations, such as the Indian Ocean Marine Affairs Cooperation, should be utilized in the implementation of the new regime in the high seas. ISRAEL: Amb. Israel Eliashev said that the gap in standards and capacities between rich and poor, mass poverty and starvation are still greater threats to universal peace and a stronger affront to human dignity than any threat arising from the admitted neglect of ecological prudence and restraint. He stressed the need to ensure that the CSD is an efficient and effective body and supported the view that within the next CSD session, interested parties could discuss national experiences in developing and applying sustainable development strategies. The importance of adequate funding mechanisms cannot be overemphasized. Technology must be carefully selected and adapted to the specific needs of countries. He invited all countries to join Israel in the venture of desert research to find practical solutions to desertification. In 1995, Israel and Japan will convene a seminar on land and water management. He hoped peace will embrace neighboring countries so that resources can be devoted to environment and sustainable development. INDONESIA: Marwah Daud Ibrahim noted the important activities that have taken place since the Rio Conference. With regard to the Conference on Straddling and Highly Migratory Fish Stocks, she supported the draft agreement and said that it should serve as a good basis for future negotiations. Indonesia supports the convening of two additional sessions in 1995. She regretfully noted that the issues of financial resources and technology transfer are still problematic and that much more needs to be done if the commitments made in Rio are to be met. TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO: Evans King, on behalf of the member States of the Caribbean Community, said that they had always urged for immediate action with regard to marine living resources on the high seas and he highlighted the progress achieved in the Straddling and Highly Migratory Fish Stocks Conference. UNCLOS provides a broad legal framework for the conservation of those species and the dual regime established for the Exclusive Economic Zones and the high seas should not be compromised by the process. He highlighted the precautionary principle that is prevalent in the draft agreement and the acceptable standards for conservation and management measures that are to take into account the best scientific evidence available. He urged all States to participate in the process so that it reflects a global consensus. AUSTRALIA: Anastasia Carayanides, on behalf of the South Pacific Forum (SPF), highlighted the importance of forests, fisheries and climate change. With regard to fisheries, States have a duty to conserve the resources responsibly and Australia welcomes the emergence of a legally-binding document on the issue of straddling and highly migratory fish stocks. Some members of the SPF do not have the resources to engage in protracted negotiations and yet remain committed to the process. She also said that a cohesive regional approach had been facilitated by the South Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP). She also expressed concern at reports that drift-net fishing may be continuing in some parts of the world, although no longer in the South Pacific. MYANMAR: Amb. U Hla Maung said that UNCED stands as a landmark, but the environmental degradation caused by negligent human activities is threatening our very existence on earth and, unless timely action is taken, the future of mankind could be in jeopardy. He then highlighted the ways in which policies can be adopted to ensure that both the imperative of environmental protection and the opportunity for economic development reinforce each other. He added that in Myanmar, as in many other countries of the region, the source of the problem lies not in industrial development and unsustainable lifestyles but in under-development and poverty. He called on all States to meet their commitments in good faith. JAPAN: Amb. Shunji Maruyama noted that it is essential that the CSD receive the political support necessary to enable it to tackle the major issues in the area of sustainable development. It must address the root causes of these problems and express its views on controversial issues such as production and consumption patterns and trade and development. Environment and trade policies must be mutually supportive and the interaction between the CSD, the World Trade Organization, UNCTAD and UNEP is important. It is also important to have the opportunity to share different national experiences in the implementation of Agenda 21 and it might be useful to conduct case studies. The CSD's working methods must also be improved, including shifting time allocated from general debate to discussion and dialogue. Japan is organizing a number of intersessional activities to support the work of the CSD, including a meeting of the working group on Criteria and Indicators for Sustainable Management of Temperate and Boreal Forests in November, a meeting of experts on finance in January (co-hosted by Malaysia) and a symposium on integrated management of land and water resources (co-hosted by Israel). MICRONESIA: Amb. Yosiwo P. George said that as the international community moves from negotiating to implementation of the Rio and post-Rio agreements, those nations having possession of the resources required to achieve our common goals must not apply those resources grudgingly or with hesitation. With regard to the Climate Change Convention, he noted that the small island States had tabled a proposed protocol to the Convention that would require specific reductions in the emission of greenhouse gases by developed countries on a specific timetable. The term "incremental costs" still awaits detailed discussion. Micronesia supports the elaboration of a binding legal document as the outcome of the Conference on Straddling and Highly Migratory Fish Stocks. BOLIVIA: The representative highlighted the necessity for developing countries to achieve fair and sustainable development. He called on developed States to reach their ODA target of 0.7% of GNP and called for institutions that are manageable. He also emphasized the political dimension of sustainable development and a move to participatory democracy means changing the patterns of development, production and consumption alike. He also highlighted the need to ensure that the most vulnerable States are protected. BELARUS: The delegate called on the establishment of closer ties between the CSD and other regional organizations, such as the UN Economic Commissions. As one of the most environmentally vulnerable States, Belarus has not been able to carry out all the measures that it has agreed to, and also must face humanitarian crises and conversion requirements. He then described in great detail a proposal that his Government has made to hold a conference on the sustainable development of countries with economies in transition. FRIDAY, 21 OCTOBER 1994 IRAN: The representative noted that ODA has reached its lowest level since 1983, GEF resources have fallen short of expectations and the question of transfer of environmentally sound technology on preferential and concessional terms has received only lip service. The CSD must focus on critical issues and not become merely a talk show. Priority should be accorded to strengthening the CSD's relationship with the GEF Council. Iran has established a high-level committee on sustainable development and a special commission on desertification. Iran's ratification of the Conventions on Biological Diversity and Climate Change is in the final stage. CZECH REPUBLIC: Karel Zebrakovsky said that the CSD has not succeeded in mobilizing enough political will to generate stronger commitments. The CSD intersessional activities need to be more systematic and coordinated. Greater cooperation between UNEP and the CSD is also needed. The Czech Republic is implementing the Climate Change and Biodiversity Conventions, is considering signing the Convention to Combat Desertification and will support a dialogue towards a possible new convention on forests. The Czech Republic is also hosting a CSD-related workshop on Economic Instruments for Sustainable Development in Prague in January 1995. UKRAINE: The representative said that an important step in improving the work of the CSD is to integrate sectoral and cross sectoral issues. It is also important to link the elaboration of sectoral agreements and the finances to implement them. He said that the proposal made by Belarus to hold a conference on the sustainable development for countries with economies in transition is an interesting one. Ukraine advocates responsible fishing management on the basis of international agreements and cannot accept the attempts made in violation of UNCLOS to legalize unilateral measures and apply them to the high seas. ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA: On behalf of the 12 countries of the Caribbean Community, Amb. Lionel Hurst focused on the Convention on Climate Change. He urged all countries not party to the Convention to ratify it before the first Conference of the Parties in March 1995. He stressed the dangers posed by sea level rise and climate change that threaten the very existence of the Caricom States. The Caricom States, as a subregion and as members of AOSIS, maintain that the industrialized countries should take significant steps to reduce emissions of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases. These concerns are adequately addressed by the AOSIS draft protocol on greenhouse gas emission reduction, which calls for new commitments by industrialized parties to reduce the emissions of greenhouse gases by at least 20% by the year 2005. Caricom supports the G-77 position with regard to joint implementation and the fact that the criterion of co-location of related Secretariats should not be used to decide the final location of the permanent Secretariat. He urged that the debate on the AOSIS draft protocol begin at the 11th session of the INC, with its subsequent adoption at the first Conference of Parties. NEPAL: The representative pointed out the need for additional. efforts in the areas of finance and technology transfer. Nepal has ratified the Climate Change and Biodiversity Conventions and participated in the negotiation of the Convention to Combat Desertification. It has set up an environmental policy council and is working on a regional action plan. PAKISTAN: Samiya Waheed Junejo stressed the importance of the CSD's decisions on changing consumption and production patterns, since the CSD is the only intergovernmental forum dealing with this issue. In order for the developing countries to realize the goals of sustainable development, specific policies need to be formulated for a conducive international economic environment. The recent stress on environmental conditionalities contradicts the principles of an open and free multilateral trading system. While the CSD intersessional sectoral meetings have contributed to a thorough analysis of some of the Agenda 21 sectoral areas, they should not affect the holistic review of Agenda 21. GUYANA: On behalf of the Caribbean Community, the representative expressed concern about declining ODA flows and said that the specific nature of the GEF financing scope must be emphasized along with the call for new resources. The GEF replenishment is a first step at a minimum level. Changing consumption and production patterns rests with developed countries, but our own societies are confronted with detrimental patterns of production and consumption. Attention should be given to the special situation and needs of developing countries, including eradicating poverty and meeting basic human needs. It is not premature to begin discussion of the format and scope of the special session of the General Assembly to review implementation of Agenda 21 in 1997. INDIA: Amb. T. P. Sreenivasan warned against reopening the Rio commitments within the context of the Climate Change Convention. When speaking of common but differentiated responsibilities, developing countries have a scope to increase their emissions of greenhouse gases since their development process should be encouraged rather than retarded. The COP is the supreme body and it is supposed to lay down programme priorities, but there is still a lack of clarity on several concepts in the Convention, including full incremental costs, joint implementation and transfer of technology. The developed countries have to bring about the political will to implement this Convention. Following the submission of the draft protocol by AOSIS, India recognizes the need to address the problem but this is not the time to strengthen the commitments beyond the year 2000. If we start negotiations now on a new protocol without a fundamental basis to implement the existing Convention, the protocol may become a distraction. VENEZUELA: The representative highlighted the extent of the progress that has been achieved in the short time since Rio, particularly the Conference on the Sustainable Development of Small Island Developing States, the Convention to Combat Desertification and the entry into force of the Conventions on Biodiversity and Climate Change. The CSD must be the intergovernmental forum where decisions are taken and, so far, the general speeches have taken too much time and have not left enough room for actual negotiations. It is not enough to have merely a reiteration of the objectives of Agenda 21. NAMIBIA: The delegate said that sustainable development is a global concern that should be addressed with global action. The delegate described the plans that Namibia has implemented to achieve sustainable development and also called for financial commitments to be implemented. She highlighted the importance of the Women's Conference and Habitat II, since sustainable development is impossible to achieve amidst exclusion. With regard to the fish stocks Conference, she said that although the establishment of an effective high seas regime is important, the interests of small coastal States must not be compromised in the process. URUGUAY: The representative said that just because the problems are stated does not mean that they are solved. Uruguay has taken a number of measures to implement the recommendations of Agenda 21, but climate change is a global problem and it should be addressed by the international community as a whole. BRAZIL: Amb. Ronaldo Mota Sardenberg said that Brazil continues to support the strengthening of the role of the CSD, although it has not reached most of the targets established. He said he was happy with the conclusion of the Desertification Convention, although it fell short of some legitimate concerns of African States. It is the symbol of an awakening, but its success will depend on the credibility of the international community, particularly when the ODA targets are attained and transfer of resources and technology are implemented. Unilateral trade measures to protect the environment will jeopardize sustainable development. KENYA: C. M. Kang'e expressed concern over the lack of implementation of Agenda 21. Despite limited financial and technical resources, Kenya has set up a National Environmental Action Plan, embarked on a review of environmental legislation and integrated environmental considerations into overall national development plans. UNEP headquarters in Nairobi should not be weakened as a result of strengthening UNEP's regional offices. CSD BRIEFING On Thursday morning, the Chair of the Commission on Sustainable Development, Klaus Töpfer, reported on the work of the CSD. He highlighted the central points of the 14 decisions taken by the Commission at its second session in May 1994 on such issues as finance, transfer of environmentally sound technology, trade and environment, and changing production and consumption patterns. He then proceeded to list a number of ways in which the work of the Commission can be improved: Greater weight must be given to the political profile of the Commission. The intersessional period must be used intensively to implement the decisions of the second session and prepare for the third. The CSD will only be successful if it makes progress in the cross-sectoral issues of particular importance, namely finance, technology, trade and environment and consumption and production patterns. The next session of the CSD must be in a position to decide as clearly and concretely as possible what needs to be done in a global perspective in order to enhance the implementation of the Forest Principles and Chapter 11 of Agenda 21. National experiences must be incorporated into the work of the CSD. The development of indicators for sustainable development must be discussed at the next session. The CSD must continue to expand its contacts with other bodies inside and outside the UN system. All major groups must continue to be involved in the work of the CSD. BRIEFING BY THE HIGH-LEVEL ADVISORY BOARD ON SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT On Friday morning the Vice-Chair and Rapporteur of the High-Level Advisory Board on Sustainable Development gave an informal briefing on their work. The High Level Advisory Board was created in July 1993 to act as an independent body of advisors to the Secretary-General and through him to the UN System. The board met in September 1993 and March 1994 and submitted a report to the second session of the CSD. This week the Advisory Board held its third session and focused on the following topics: sustainable food security; trade and environment; capacity building; and forging alliances between the UN system, governments and other actors (NGOS, science and industry) in the field of sustainable development. During its meeting, the Advisory Board met with the CSD Bureau, UNDP Administrator Gus Speth, Paul Kennedy, who is working on the reform of UN System, and UN Secretary-General Boutros Boutros-Ghali. The Advisory Board does not intend to produce a comprehensive review but rather a critical analysis of certain aspects related to sustainable development. ========================================================= This issue of the Earth Negotiations Bulletin (c) is written and edited by Pamela Chasek , Charlotte de Fontaubert (acvdf@chopin.udel.edu) and Langston James Goree VI "Kimo" (kimo@iisd.org). Funding for this issue of the Bulletin has been provided by the International Institute for Sustainable Development (iisd@web.apc.org), the Government of Denmark and the Pew Charitable Trusts through the Pew Global Stewardship Initiative. The authors can be contacted at their electronic mail addresses and by phone and fax at +1-212-888-2737. IISD can be contacted by phone at +1-204-958-7700, by fax at +1-204-958-7710 or at 161 Portage Avenue East, 6th Floor, Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3B 0Y4, Canada. The opinions expressed in Earth Negotiations Bulletin are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of IISD and other funders. Excerpts from the Earth Negotiations Bulletin may be used in other publications with appropriate citation. Electronic versions of the ENB can be found on the gopher at and in searchable hyptertext through the Linkages WWW-server at on the Internet. This volume of the Bulletin is uploaded into the APC conferences and . 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