Notification 2009-018

Dear Madam/Sir, In its decision IX/13 A, paragraph 4, the Conference of the Parties requests the Executive Secretary to continue to compile case studies, analyze and report on work concerning related provisions, focusing on Article 10(c), and to provide advice to the Working Group on Article 8(j) at its sixth meeting on how this related provision may be further advanced and implemented as a priority. In order to assist the Executive Secretary in the preparation of advice for the next meeting of the Working Group, I have the pleasure to inform you that an Online Discussion Forum on Article 10(c) will be held from 11 February to 11 March 2009 through the Traditional Knowledge Information Portal of the Convention’s website. This forum will be guided by the framing question: How can Parties to the Convention ensure that obligations arising from Article 10(c), to protect and encourage the customary use of biological resources in accordance with traditional cultural practices that are compatible with conservation or sustainable use requirements, are further advanced and implemented as a priority? I wish to invite all National Focal Points, indigenous and local community organizations, non-governmental organizations, academics and other interested parties, to participate in the conference. In order to participate, please visit the Traditional Knowledge Information Portal at: https://www.cbd.int/tk/forums.shtml. An abstract has been posted to the Forum page in order to provide context and stimulate discussion. Participants who do not already have a CBD user name and password will be able to register on the “Discussion Forum” page. I thank you in advance for your participation and for your continued support to the work of the Convention. Please accept, Madam/Sir, the assurances of my highest consideration.

Executive Secretary

To: CBD National Focal Points, Indigenous and Local Communities