Invasive alien species (IAS) are identified as one of the main direct drivers of global biodiversity loss in the IPBES Global Assessment Report, and their negative impact has been intensifying globally, requiring strengthened collaboration across sectors and government agencies at all levels and areas to effectively manage increasing intentional and unintentional transport of IAS across borders.

Reflecting the need of enhanced actions, Target 6 of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) was set which aims to reduce rates of introduction and establishment of invasive alien species by 50 per cent by 2030.

Furthermore, key findings and useful scientific information are to be provided by the IPBES invasive alien species assessment report to be finalized at IPBES-10 in September 2023.

At the G7 Ministers' Meeting on Climate, Energy and Environment held in Japan in April 2023, Ministers highlighted the need to address IAS and decided to develop a set of recommendations on strengthening international cooperation in this regard. Several occasions, including this side event, are scheduled to exchange views with other governments, relevant international organizations, and stakeholders.

The side event aims to introduce recent global developments around IAS issues including the adoption of Target 6 of the GBF and the finalization of the IPBES assessment report on IAS. The speakers will also share their experiences at national level toward the achievement of the global target and will further discuss necessary actions to enhance international cooperation.

In addition to the organizers, expected speakers include CBD Secretariat, IPBES assessment co-chair, Government of New Zealand and Government of South Africa.