Observer organization

Conventions, multilateral organizations, United Nations bodies and specialized agencies and other organizations that have been approved as observers at previous sessions

Who can become an observer?

An interim procedure set out in paragraph 22 of the report of its first session (IPBES/1/12) has been applied to admit observers at previous sessions. Observers admitted to IPBES 1 to IPBES 12 would be among those admitted to IPBES 13. The interim procedure provides that any body or organization qualified in matters covered by the Platform should inform the secretariat of the Platform of its wish to be represented at sessions of the Plenary. This information is provided to the secretariat during the registration process for participation at Plenary sessions.

Why become an observer?

The rules of procedure for sessions of the Plenary of IPBES provide for the participation of observers in sessions of the Plenary. Observers may, upon the invitation of the Chair, participate in the Plenary without the ability to cast votes or join or block consensus.

How to become an observer?

Any body, organization or agency, whether national or international, governmental, intergovernmental or non-governmental, including organizations of and representatives of Indigenous peoples and local communities, which is qualified in matters covered by IPBES can apply to be admitted as observer. The Plenary will decide on the admission of new observers in accordance with the interim procedure described in paragraph 22 of the report of the first session of the Plenary (IPBES/1/12, available at https://ipbes.net/document-library-catalogue/ipbes112). To apply for admission as an observer, a representative of the body, organization or agency seeking accreditation will be required to submit a formal letter, signed by the head of the organization, informing the IPBES secretariat of its wish to be represented at the next session of the Plenary, and providing relevant information. The application for accreditation will open once registration for the next plenary session begins.