Establishing and implementing an effective Post-2020 Framework for Biodiversity, and achieving the objectives of the CBD, will not be possible without coming to an agreement on a solution for DSI that enables fair and equitable sharing of benefits while preserving access in support of research. As part of its work in support of developing such a solution, the Informal Advisory Group on DSI proposed a set of policy options, as well as a performance matrix to evaluate them (CBD/WG2020/3/INF/8).

The DSI Scientific Network, a global network of experts and researchers working with DSI, has conducted a systematic analysis of the proposed solutions using the matrix, to identify which would best meet the goals of the Post-2020 Framework. To our knowledge this is one of the first such analysis published, and therefore constitutes an extremely useful tool in informing discussions on DSI under the CBD. The purpose of this side event will be to present the findings of this analysis, the methodology through which they were arrived at, and the implications for the decisions being negotiated at COP 15. It will be an opportunity for Parties and other stakeholders to hear from those who work regularly with DSI as to what the concrete effects of proposed solutions will be on ABS in terms of feasibility, efficiency, and effectiveness. 

Use of DSI underpins work in all fields of conservation biology and ecology, as well as many domains beyond. Parties must find a way to ensure the benefits of this use are shared fairly and equitably. At the same time, the ongoing biodiversity crisis demonstrates the urgent need for further research into how to address and reverse it, which will depend on access to DSI. The analysis presented in this side event can help chart a productive way forward where these goals are not in conflict.