The 19th session of the United Nations Forum on Forests (UNFF19) was held at the United Nations (UN) headquarters in New York, United States, from May 6 to May 10, 2024. Organized by the UNFF Secretariat, this session brought together top officials to discuss the vital role of forests in combating climate change, biodiversity loss, and land degradation, as well as in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). A significant highlight was the all-day High-Level Segment (HLS), where participants underscored the multifaceted benefits of sustainable forest management.
The key outcomes of UNFF19 included the High-Level Segment declaration and an omnibus resolution. These documents encompassed the results of the midterm review and introduced the new Quadrennial Programme of Work for the Forum for 2025-2028. During discussions on the theme “Achieving globally agreed goals on forests, climate change, and biodiversity,” Mr. Sunpil Jin, Vice-Executive Director of the Asian Forest Cooperation Organization (AFoCO), delivered an impactful intervention.
Mr. Sunpil Jin emphasized the importance of public-private collaboration and knowledge sharing among geographically similar countries. He highlighted how regional organizations can effectively represent their region’s voice in forestry and act as catalysts for action by sharing best practices, technical expertise, and innovative solutions.
Additionally, AFoCO was acknowledged as a partner in organizing the ‘Forest Pavilion’ at the upcoming UNFCCC COP29 and COP30. The inaugural Forest Pavilion at the COP29 in 2024 will serve as a central platform for all stakeholders to unite efforts in safeguarding and leveraging forests for a just, equitable, and sustainable future. By convening world leaders in policy, science, and practice, this dedicated Forest Pavilion aims to elevate the importance of forests in climate ambition and highlight their significance to all life on our planet.
