Ahead of COP-16 UN-CBD Negotiations: Indonesian Delegation Still Awaiting New Government's Direction

Bogor, October 11, 2024 – Ahead of the Conference of the Parties (COP-16) of the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity (UN-CBD), the Indonesian government is formulating strategies and priorities in international negotiations. Prof. Dr. Gono Semiadi – National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), who will be part of the Delegation of the Republic of Indonesia (DELRI), revealed several aspects that are the main focus of the government in the forum. This was conveyed at a discussion organized by WGII on Friday, October 11, 2024, at Hotel Padjajaran, Bogor. To ensure synergy between the public sector and civil society in the implementation of conservation policies, Prof. Gono highlighted the importance of the contribution of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in achieving national targets related to biodiversity, "identify where NGOs can contribute to achieving specific national targets. The communication channel to the government can be renegotiated after the new government," he said. Along with the government transition in Indonesia, communication channels with the government need to be adjusted. Prof. Gono stated that until now, the National Focal Point (NFP) in the scientific field is still awaiting directions and standing points from the new government regarding COP-16 negotiations. It is hoped that the new Indonesian government will have its cabinet in place when COP-16 takes place, so the Indonesian Delegation can coordinate, especially on matters related to decision-making during COP-16. However, the consultation process with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will continue until just before departure to COP-16. "Consultations with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will continue until the last minutes before departure," said Gono. Prof. Dr. Gono Semiadi – National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) conveyed the Indonesian government's agenda at COP 16 online at the Meeting with the RI Delegation discussion organized by WGII. The Indonesian government has national principles that will guide negotiations, including on issues considered sensitive. For instance, the government supports discussions on the protection of gender rights and certain marginalized groups within the scope of biodiversity. However, if the discussion on gender then expands to issues like LGBTQIA+, the Indonesian government will adjust its position based on fundamental concepts and principles. In the context of Digital Sequence Information (DSI), Indonesia continues to uphold the principle of sovereignty and will push for the presence of the state in international regulations. This step aims to ensure that genetic resources and biodiversity information remain under national control and are not easily exploited by foreign parties. This year, DELRI faces significant challenges in COP-16 negotiations. Several key issues will be determined in the days leading up to the negotiations, including whether red flag issues will be raised or not. The government's target is that within one week after the inauguration of the new government, there will be a more concrete view regarding the COP-16 negotiation strategy.