Notification 2006-121

Dear Madam/Sir, With the generous financial support of the Government of the Netherlands, the Secretariat is organizing a workshop on the application of the ecosystem approach to the planning, establishment and management of protected areas in small islands, in support of the Micronesia Challenge and similar initiatives. The purpose of this workshop is to build the capacity of Parties to implement the programme of work on island biodiversity (decision VIII/1), as requested by the Conference of Parties (COP) in paragraph 24, section C (“Supporting activities of the Secretariat”) of the annex to this decision. The main objective of the workshop is to enhance knowledge on ways and means to apply the ecosystem approach, the primary framework for action within the Convention on Biological Diversity, in concrete situations, taking into account other tools adopted by the Convention. The workshop will apply a train-the-trainers approach to facilitate and promote exchange of experience between government officials and practitioners. It will be held in Bangkok, Thailand, from 12 to 16 December 2006. By Notification 2006-086, dated 1 August 2006, the Executive Secretary invited Parties to nominate technical experts. I am pleased to convey herewith the composition of the group of selected experts (Annex). As of 30 September, 48 nominations had been received. Twelve experts were selected on the basis of these nominations, taking into account their direct professional involvement in the planning, establishment, and management of protected areas in islands, their ability to train others, the need to ensure equitable geographical distribution, and with due regard to gender balance. The list of selected experts was subsequently submitted for approval of the SBSTTA Bureau. A number of other self-funded participants will be attending, as will a number of organizations, which have been invited to participate as observers. Thank you for your continued support of the Convention. Please accept, Madam/Sir, the assurances of my highest consideration. Annex Workshop on Application of the Ecosystem Approach to Protected Areas in Small Islands, 12 to 16 December 2006, Bangkok, Thailand Africa Ms. Hajanirina Razafindrainibe, Madagascar Asia Mr. Anuwat Nateewathana, Thailand Mr. Vicente S. Paragas, Philippines Ms. Tebaua Sapolu, Kiribati Ms. Alissa Takesy, Micronesia Mr. Faleafaga Toni Tipama’a, Samoa Mr. Steve Why, Marshall Islands Latin America and Caribbean Mr. Bernard Blue, Jamaica Mr. Enrique H. Hernandez Hernandez, Cuba Ms. Dawn D. Pierre-Nathoniel, St. Lucia Mr. Spencer Thomas, Grenada Mr. Rixcie Delano Newball Stephens, Colombi

Executive Secretary

To: CBD National Focal Points, SBSTTA Focal Points, and island organizations