Meena Bilgi, WOCAN Core Associate, attended the First Forum of Ministers and Environment Authorities of Asia Pacific as one of the observers in 19-20 May in Bangkok, Thailand. The forum was organized by UN Environment Programme (UNEP) and it was attended by over 180 participants, including 137 high-level representatives of delegations from 33 countries. The meeting included sessions on: the post-2015 sustainable development agenda, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and environmental sustainability in Asia Pacific; the environment outlook for Asia Pacific; and environment-health linkages. Delegates identified challenges for the region, such as air pollution and its health impacts, the need for sound chemicals and waste management, including transboundary approaches, and promotion of the green and blue economy. In a final session, delegates put forward recommendations for consideration at the next session of the UN Environment Assembly (UNEA-2), the UN’s highest decision-making body on environmental affairs. Delegates also provided input to the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) Medium-Term Strategy 2018-2021.
The Women’s Major Group called for ‘urgent systemic repair’ to address inequalities, and proposed that a specific work area and resolution be adopted at UNEA-2 to address the nexus between gender equality, women’s human rights and the environment.
The Civil Society representatives were invited to make statements during the forum. The statement focused on strengthening civil society engagement, and called on inclusive, transparent, action-oriented and forward-looking forum. The statement also called for reform of unjust laws and policies, and to reflect gender equality and human rights in regional and international agreements.
More info:http://www.iisd.ca/ap/meaf1/
Photo by:IISD/ENB