Talks at the 19th Session of the UN Forum on Forests will focus on enhancing forest-based economic, social and environmental benefits; significantly increasing the area of protected forests worldwide; and steps to advance sustainable forest management.

The Global Environment Facility (GEF) Council Members will consider a new work program of the GEF Trust Fund under GEF’s eighth replenishment cycle, how to streamline the GEF project cycle, and possible actions to support the new agreement on conservation and sustainable use of marine biological diversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ).

The Council adopted five decisions, including: to determine by 1 June 2024 on extending the International Tropical Timber Agreement, 2006 to 2029; projects for sustainable forest management and related objectives; its budget and work programme for 2024-25; and a four-year trial period allowing members in arrears to submit projects for possible funding.

The 65th meeting of the Council of the Global Environment Facility (GEF) took place in a virtual setting, focusing on the GEF Strategy for Knowledge Management and Learning; enhancing policy coherence; and relations with Conventions and international institutions. Council Members further decided on the dates for the 66th to 68th Council meetings in 2024.