REDD+ is primarily overseen and guided by the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). As a climate change mitigation solution, it was developed by these sovereign nations working together under the UNFCCC framework.
The Role of the UNFCCC and its Parties
The UNFCCC serves as the international body under which countries negotiate and agree upon actions to address climate change. Within this framework, the Parties – sovereign states that have ratified the Convention – are the ultimate decision-makers for initiatives like REDD+.
- Policy Development: Parties to the UNFCCC establish the international policies, guidance, and decisions related to REDD+, including methodologies for monitoring, reporting, and verification (MRV) of forest-related emissions and removals, as well as safeguards for social and environmental protection.
- Negotiations: Through regular conferences (e.g., Conferences of the Parties - COPs), countries negotiate and refine the rules and operational aspects of REDD+.
- Financing Frameworks: They also work towards developing and mobilizing results-based finance mechanisms to support countries in implementing REDD+ activities.
While the UNFCCC provides the international legal and policy framework, various entities and initiatives play supporting roles in its implementation and coordination.
Supporting and Implementing Bodies
Numerous international organizations, national governments, and non-state actors contribute to the operationalization and support of REDD+ efforts:
- UN System Entities: Organizations like the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) provide technical assistance, capacity building, and coordination support to countries preparing for and implementing REDD+.
- Multilateral Funds: Entities such as the Green Climate Fund (GCF), the Forest Carbon Partnership Facility (FCPF), and the Forest Investment Program (FIP) provide financial support for REDD+ readiness and implementation activities.
- National Governments: At the country level, national governments are responsible for developing and executing national REDD+ strategies, policies, and actions. This includes establishing legal frameworks, developing monitoring systems, and engaging with stakeholders.
- Local Communities and Indigenous Peoples: These groups are crucial stakeholders in REDD+ implementation, often holding traditional knowledge and rights over forest lands. Their effective participation and the respect of their rights are vital for successful and equitable outcomes.
- Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and Research Institutions: NGOs often play roles in advocacy, project implementation, and community engagement, while research institutions provide scientific and technical expertise.
The following table summarizes the key actors involved in REDD+ at different levels:
| Level | Key Actors | Primary Role |
|---|---|---|
| International | Parties to the UNFCCC | Develop, negotiate, and decide on international policies, guidelines, and financing frameworks for REDD+. |
| Support/Coordination | UNFCCC Secretariat, UNEP, FAO, UNDP, World Bank, Multilateral Funds | Provide technical guidance, capacity building, financial support, and facilitate coordination among countries and other stakeholders. |
| National | National Governments | Develop and implement national REDD+ strategies, policies, and actions; establish legal and institutional frameworks; engage stakeholders. |
| Local/Ground | Local Communities, Indigenous Peoples, NGOs, Private Sector | Implement on-the-ground activities, ensure local participation, protect forests, and contribute to sustainable land management; benefit from REDD+ initiatives. |
In essence, while the international governance of REDD+ rests with the Parties to the UNFCCC, its implementation is a multi-stakeholder effort involving a complex web of actors from global to local levels.
[[Climate Change Mitigation]]
