UNSG report on sustainable mountain development

We are pleased to inform you that FAO, in collaboration with governments, relevant agencies of the UN system and NGOs, is currently preparing the United Nations Secretary General (UNSG) Report on Sustainable Mountain Development to be presented under the sustainable development agenda item at the 68^h session of the United Nations General Assembly.

The document will describe the status and progress made in promoting  sustainable mountain development at the national and international levels, since the previous UNSG report in 2011 (A/66/294). Consistently with the paragraphs of the relevant UNGA resolution (A/RES/66/205), the report will highlight specific thematic areas of focus, provide an overall analysis of the challenges, and include recommendations on how to achieve sustainable development in mountain regions more effectively.

We are contacting you to ensure that the forthcoming UNSG report provides an adequate overview on the results, impacts and changes achieved through action at the country level, in particular with reference to the statements of resolution A/RES/66/205.

Hence, we kindly invite you to provide us with key information on the most important results in mountain development activities since 2011 in your country.

For instance:

• Projects and programmes benefiting mountain environments and communities;
• Progress made in implementing national plans, strategies or policies related to mountains;
• Compensation mechanisms for environmental services and goods provided by mountain areas;
• In-country coordination and collaboration mechanisms for sustainable mountain development.

When drafting your contribution, please make reference to the attached outline for the next report as well as to previous UNSG report.

Action at the country level is a key factor in achieving progress in sustainable mountain development. Your input to the reporting process will reveal a significant opportunity to raise awareness on important mountain issues for your country, will gain visibility at the international level, and will contribute to drafting an official document of the UN Secretariat.

However, due to a strict limit of the report’s overall length, your contribution should not exceed 200 words. The UNSG report will provide selected examples and highlights of action, therefore we cannot guarantee that all text submitted to us will be reproduced in full or included in the final report. Our best efforts will be made in order to take all contributions into account.

We kindly request you to submit your input by 28 February 2013 at the latest to sara.manuelli@fao.org.

Thank you in advance for your valuable collaboration.