Fifth Day of the First Substantive Session of the Ad Hoc Open Ended Working Group

18 January 2019
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During the last day of the first substantive session of the Ad hoc Open-Ended Working Group (AHWG), discussion focused on the agenda for the second substantive session. The Co-Chairs presented a revised agenda, including the agenda item “discussion of possible options to address possible gaps in international environmental law (IEL) and environment-related instruments.” A proposal to split this agenda item into two parts, i.e. discussion of possible gaps followed by discussion of possible options, did not reach consensus. As a compromise, delegates agreed to add the words “as appropriate” to the end of the agenda item, and to reflect the split in the annotations to the agenda. Delegates agreed that the second substantive session will be held from 18-20 March 2019. Discussion also focused on the inter-sessional process ahead, with several delegations supporting the creation of a synthesis report of submissions. The Co-Chairs reiterated their request for inputs to be submitted by 20 February 2019.

In the afternoon, the Co-Chairs presented an oral summary of the week’s discussions. They noted the session’s constructive, open and transparent and inclusive discussion, with agreement that the work should not undermine existing instruments, bodies and processes; and how some delegations underlined the importance of conducting work on a consensus basis with a view to a pragmatic outcome. In closing remarks the Co-Chairs thanked delegates and all participants.

Co-Chair Francisco António Duarte Lopes, closed the meeting at 4:01 pm.

IISD Reporting Services, through its Earth Negotiations Bulletin (ENB) Meeting Coverage, povided daily web coverage and a summary and analysis report from the 1st Substantive Session of the Ad Hoc Open Ended Working Group Towards a Global Pact for the Environment.

Download the Summary and Analysis in PDF.