Mountain Forum Annual Report 2007

The year 2007 was a year of progress, change and increased collaboration between the networks. As an information and communication network on SMD, it has a focus on the key values of mountains as major sources of water and biodiversity, but also includes empowering local communities to enhance their livelihoods in mountainous areas. It is useful to recall that mountain areas are generally marginalised in terms of geophysical resources and political clout.

In addition, they are adversely affected by climate change and therefore, strategies to link people and mountains and development of the capacity of mountain people deserves continued, if not increased attention in the coming years. The Mountain Forum is set up to support these goals and this report highlights of the achievements and developments in 2007.

The activities and interaction of all concerned in the Mountain Forum in 2007 have been a step forward towards the goal of achieving sustainable mountain development.