Timeline - POST2020

KEY EVENTS

OUR TIMELINE

What’s coming-up and how can we get prepared for greater mobilization? Having clarity on key meetings, events and celebration dates that are planned at the international and the national levels can enable partners and stakeholders to look for synergies. This is essential for the prompt implementation of the Biodiversity Plan (the GBF).

2024

2024

Community Events

World Economic Forum – Davos

January 15

- January 19

The 2024 Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum takes place from 15 – 19 January in Davos, Switzerland and this year, it is convening under the theme Rebuilding Trust. the WEF Davos gathers more than 100 governments, all major international organizations but also many representatives of society leaders, foremost experts, young changemakers, social entrepreneurs and the media. It will be an occasion to remind that Natural Capital underpins all economic activities and human well-being and it is crucial to deploy means to halt and reverse biodiversity loss. Watch our video.

International days

International Day of Education

January 24

International Day of Education is observed on January 24 every year. It looks at education from a broader perspective. Education must be prioritized to accelerate progress towards all the Sustainable Development Goals against the backdrop of a global recession, growing inequalities and the climate crisis. The day is created to campaign for better education reforms and improve access to education for all. Learn more here.

International days

International Day of Clean Energy

January 26

By creating a day focused on clean energy, the UN underscores the importance of inclusivity and offers a dedicated day for both traditional and non-traditional actors to showcase their contributions to more affordable, reliable, and sustainable modern energy systems that ultimately help accelerate progress towards the 2030 agenda for sustainable development. More.

2024 ECOSOC Partnership Forum

January 30

The 2024 Partnership Forum of the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) will be held on 30 January 2024 at the United Nations Headquarters in New York under the theme of “Reinforcing the 2030 Agenda and eradicating poverty in times of multiple crises: the effective delivery of sustainable, resilient and innovative solutions”. The Forum will place a special emphasis on the Sustainable Development Goals, namely Goal 1 (no poverty); Goal 2 (zero hunger); Goal 13 (climate action); Goal 16 (peace and justice); and Goal 17 (partnership for the Goals). Learn more here.

International days

World Wetlands Day

February 2

Wetlands are ecosystems where water is the primary factor controlling the environment and the associated plant and animal life. These lands are critical to people and nature, given the intrinsic value of these ecosystems, and their benefits and services. Wetlands are among the ecosystems with the highest rates of decline, loss and degradation. Indicators of current negative trends in global biodiversity and ecosystem functions are projected to continue in response to direct and indirect drivers such as rapid human population growth, unsustainable production and consumption and associated technological development, as well as the adverse impacts of climate change. More.

Community Events

1st GBFF Council Meeting

February 9

The Global Biodiversity Framework Fund (GBFF) has been designed to mobilize and accelerate investment in the conservation and sustainability of wild species and ecosystems, whose health is under threat from wildfires, flooding, extreme weather, and human activity including urban sprawl. This fund was ratified and launched at the GEF Assembly in Vancouver in 2022, where two countries announced initial contributions to start its capitalization. This included 200 million Canadian dollars from Canada and 10 million pounds from the United Kingdom.The 1st Council meeting of the Global Biodiversity Framework Fund (GBFF) will take place on February 9, 2024.

International days

International Day of Women and Girls in Science

February 11

Last year, the International Day of Women and Girls in Science (IDWGIS) focused on the role of Women and Girls and Science as relates to the Sustainable Development Goals(SDGs), namely SDG 6 (clean water and sanitation), SDG 7 (affordable and clean energy), SDG 9 (industry, innovation, and infrastructure), SDG 11 (sustainable cities and communities) and SDG17(means of implementation), while following up on discussions on water held during from the “Water Unites Us” 7th IDWGIS, the 2nd High-Level International Conference on the International Decade for Action on Water for Sustainable Development 2018-2028, held in Dushanbe, and the 2nd UN Ocean Conference and its High-Level Symposium on Water held in Lisbon, as a contribution for the 2023 UN Water Conference, and other UN Fora. More.

CBD Events

CMS COP 14 (Samarkand, Uzbzkistan)

February 12

- February 17

The 14th Meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS COP14) is set to take place in the historic city of Samarkand, Uzbekistan, from 12 to 17 February 2024.The conference will be convened under the slogan, “Nature knows no borders”.

CMS COP 14 (Samarkand, Uzbzkistan)

February 12

- February 17

The Fourteenth Meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (COP14) will be hosted by the Government of Uzbekistan, in Samarkand from 12-17 February 2024.The Fifty-Fourth Meeting of the Standing Committee (StC54) will take place immediately before the COP in the same location. More details on these meetings and possible additional associated events that may take place during or prior to COP14 will follow in due course. More.

International days

World Day of Social Justice

February 20

Poverty and inequalities within and among countries are on the rise in many parts of the world. The economic and social crises of recent years have been exacerbated by the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic, natural disasters due to accelerating climate change, geopolitical tensions and armed conflicts. Beyond the human tragedies associated with them and their impact on the world of work, these crises have highlighted the interlinkages and dependencies of economies and societies around the world and shown the crucial need for concerted action to respond to them, at global, regional and national levels. More.

Community Events

United Nations Environment Assembly

February 26

- March 1

The sixth session of the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA-6) will take place from 26 February to 1 March, 2024 at the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) headquarters in Nairobi, Kenya.As the world’s highest decision-making body on the environment, UNEA aims to help restore harmony between humanity and nature, improving the lives of the world’s most vulnerable people.UNEA-6 will focus on how multilateralism can help tackle the triple planetary crisis of climate change, nature and biodiversity loss, and pollution and waste. More abut previsous sessions here.

International days

World Wildlife Day

March 3

March 3 is World Wildlife Day. It is a United Nations International day to celebrate all the world’s wild animals and plants and the contribution that they make to our lives and the health of the planet. This date was chosen as it is the birthday of CITES, the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, signed in 1973. Learn more here.

International days

International Women’s Day

March 8

International Women’s Day is held every year on the 8 March to raise awareness of the issues impacting women all over the world. The day has been recognized as the United Nation’s Day for women’s rights and world peace since 1975. It is an important day to celebrate women’s social, economic, cultural & political achievements + call for gender equality. More.

Post-2020 Events

Popst-2020 Workshop “Transition of Agri-food systems for KMGBF

March 19

- March 21

Entitled “Enhancing the role of science-policy interfaces in transforming agri-food systems to strengthen the implementation of the KMGBF” the gathering in Montpellier that Post-2020 Biodiversity Framework EU-Support project is looking to contribute to organize, will take the form of a seminar involving international experts (with a special focus on the Global South), decision and policy makers and other stakeholders. Learn more on about the previous gathering here.

International days

International Day of Forests

March 21

Forests give us so much to our health. They purify the water, clean the air, capture carbon to fight climate change, provide food and life-saving medicines, and improve our well-being. Forest sustainable management and their use of resources are key to combating climate change, and to contributing to the prosperity and well-being of current and future generations. Forests also play a crucial role in poverty alleviation and in the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). More.

International days

World Water Day

March 22

This World Water Day is about accelerating change to solve the water and sanitation crisis. And because water affects us all, we need everyone to take action. Billions of people and countless schools, businesses, healthcare centres, farms and factories don’t have the safe water and toilets they need. To accelerate change, we need more action. Learn about how in the UN World Water Development Report, the UN 2023 Water Conference and through stories from around the world. More.

Community Events

7th BioTrade Congress – UNCTAD

March 25

- March 26

The United Nations Office at Geneva (UNOG), holds its 7th BioTrade Congress at the Palais des Nations (Room XVII), co-organized by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) and partners. The Congress is a global event that brings together trade and biodiversity experts and practitioners for a high-level exchange on key issues concerning the links between trade and biodiversity. The 7th BioTrade Congress “Global Governance for Trade and Biodiversity” will discuss the global governance of trade and biodiversity, and how trade can become an accelerator for implementing the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (The Biodiversity Plan) through practical implementation of sustainable trade. The Congress will also feature exchanges and case studies on the biodiversity and socio-economic impact generated through the trade of biodiversity-based products.

International days

International Zero Waste Day

March 30

The International Day of Zero Waste aims to promote sustainable consumption and production patterns, support the societal shift towards circularity and raise awareness about how zero-waste initiatives contribute to the advancement of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.The waste sector contributes significantly to the triple planetary crisis of climate change, biodiversity and nature loss, and pollution. More.

International days

World Health Day

April 7

In 1948, countries of the world came together and founded WHO to promote health, keep the world safe and serve the vulnerable – so everyone, everywhere can attain the highest level of health and well-being. This day is an opportunity to look back at public health successes that have improved quality of life during the last seven decades. It is also an opportunity to motivate action to tackle the health challenges of today and tomorrow.

Community Events

Sustainable Natural Fibers Global Conference

April 11

- April 12

The Sustainable Natural Fibres (SNF) Global Conferenceis an international event aimed at advancing sustainability and responsible practices within the natural fibres and fashion textile sector, covering animal fibres, down, silk, and other ethically sourced materials. It serves as a learning platform for all stakeholders engaged in the industry supply chains, from herders and growers to manufacturers and international brands, as well as research and academic institutions, government bodies, private sector bodies and NGOs. Learn more here.

Community Events

Spring Meetings of the World Bank Group (WBG) and the International Monetary Fund (IMF)

April 19

- April 21

The 2024 Spring Meetings of the World Bank Group (WBG) and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and related ancillary events will take place from 19-21 April in Washington, D.C., US.

International days

World Creativity and Innovation Day

April 21

On World Creativity and Innovation Day, the world is invited to embrace the idea that innovation is essential for harnessing the economic potential of nations. Innovation, creativity and mass entrepreneurship can provide new momentum towards achieving the Sustainable Sustainble Goals (SDGs). It can harness economic growth and job creation, while expanding opportunities for everyone, including women and youth. It can provide solutions to some of the most pressing problems such as poverty eradication and the elimination of hunger. Human creativity and innovation, at both the individual and group levels, have become the true wealth of nations in the twenty-first century. More.

International days

International Mother Earth Day

April 22

This is the third Mother Earth Day celebrated within the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration. Ecosystems support all life on Earth. The healthier our ecosystems are, the healthier the planet – and its people. Restoring our damaged ecosystems will help to end poverty, combat climate change and prevent mass extinction. But we will only succeed if everyone plays a part. More.

International days

International Girls in ICT Day

April 28

Every year, ITU and partners work together to inspire and encourage girls to pursue a future in ICTs towards bridging the gender digital divide. The aim is to encourage young women and girls to pursue their studies and careers in science, engineering, technology, mathematics, and other fields and help them achieve their dreams. More.

International days

World Tuna Day

May 2

As a result of the amazing qualities of tuna, the fish are threatened by overwhelming demand. According to the latest data, among the seven principal tuna species, 33.3 percent of the stocks are estimated to be fished at biologically unsustainable levels. That is why in December 2016, the United Nations General Assembly voted to officially observe World Tuna Day.The move underlines the importance of conservation management to ensure that we have systems in place to prevent tuna stocks from crashing. Many countries depend heavily on tuna resources for food security and nutrition, economic development, employment, government revenue, livelihoods, culture, and recreation.

Community Events

6 th Science-Policy for Biodiversity Forum

May 3

- May 3

Implementing the twenty three targets of the Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) needs the understanding of what each target means and the complex interrelationship among them, but also the implications for society.The objective of the webinar is to motivate participation of scientists in the process of shaping the pathway for implementation of this new strategic plan through 2030 and engaging in the development of science contributing to biodiversity policies. More.

International days

International Plant Health Day

May 12

Humans depend on plants for 80 percent of our food and 98 percent of the oxygen we breathe, while up to 40 percent of global crop production is lost due to plant pests and diseases every year. This poses a serious threat to food security and nutrition and sets back efforts to achieve the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The United Nations has designated 12 May for the annual celebration of the day, in a key legacy of the International Year of Plant Health 2020. FAO is calling on the public to make sure they have the necessary phytosanitary or plant health certificates when bringing plants and plant products from overseas or buying them online, as these may be potential pathways for pests to be introduced and established in new areas. More.

CBD Events

CBD SBSTTA 26

May 13

- November 17

The 26th meeting of the Subsidiary Body on Scientific, Technical and Technological Advice (SBSTTA) of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) will take place in May 2024.More

International days

World Migratory Bird Day

May 13

World Migratory Bird Day is an annual awareness-raising campaign highlighting the need for the conservation of migratory birds and their habitats. It has a global outreach and is an effective tool to help raise global awareness of the threats faced by migratory birds, their ecological importance, and the need for international cooperation to conserve them.

CBD Events

CBD SBSTTA #26

May 13

- May 18

The 26th meeting of the Subsidiary Body on Scientific, Technical and Technological Advice (SBSTTA) of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) will take place in May 2024, in Nairobi, Kenya. More.

Community Events

World Species Congress

May 15

- May 15

In 2008, at the World Conservation Congress in Barcelona, IUCN Members adopted Resolution 4.019 calling for a World Species Congress to fill the need for a science-based, interdisciplinary, inclusive gathering to highlight the status of species and chart the future course of species conservation. Reverse the Red’s convening of a World Species Congress will be a forum for collaboration to drive conservation action forward, as we work together to meet expectations of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF), signed on 19 December 2022. Learn more here.

International days

World Bees Day

May 20

Bees and other pollinators, such as butterflies, bats and hummingbirds, are increasingly under threat from human activities. Pollination is, however, a fundamental process for the survival of our ecosystems. Nearly 90% of the world’s wild flowering plant species depend, entirely, or at least in part, on animal pollination, along with more than 75% of the world’s food crops and 35% of global agricultural land. To raise awareness of the importance of pollinators, the threats they face and their contribution to sustainable development, the UN designated 20 May as World Bee Day.

International days

World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development

May 21

Held every year on 21 May, UNESCO leads the celebration of World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development highlighting not only the richness of the world’s cultures, but also the essential role of intercultural dialogue for achieving peace and sustainable development. Lear more.

Community Events

International Day for Biological Diversity

May 22

The United Nations has proclaimed May 22 The International Day for Biological Diversity (IDB) to increase understanding and awareness of biodiversity issues. Biodiversity is the living fabric of our planet. It underpins human wellbeing in the present and in the future, and its rapid decline threatens nature and people alike. More here.

Community Events

The Nature of Cities Festival – TNOC Festival

June 3

- June 7

TNOC Festival is part conference, part radical imagination, part retreat.

This Summer in Berlin, participants are invited to collaborate, learn, present, and to meet hundreds of new best friends and urban nature co-conspirators. The festival session program is a global exercise in crowd-sourced creativity where transdisciplinary, dialogue-driven, and innovative sessions are submitted to us from around the world are presented.

Learn more here.

Community Events

The Immersed In Change High Level Conference

June 7

- June 9

The Immersed In Change High Level Conference, convened by the government of Costa Rica, is approaching: it will take place outside the country’s capital, San José, on 7-8 June 2024, exactly one year before the 2025 Ocean Conference organised by the United Nations in Nice (France). This event symbolizes the need to immerse into the ocean and take action to address its challenges. The conference aims to inspire individual and collective action to conserve the ocean.Learn more here.

Community Events

50th Anniversay of the G7 Summit

June 13

- June 15

As the Group of 7 (G7) Presidency in 2024, Italy will host the G7 Summit in Puglia, Italy, in June. The Government of Italy selected Puglia, a city that has “acted as a bridge between East and West” and symbolizes connection between the East and West, to align with the Summit’s focus on the Global South. Global summits such the G7 continue to play a crucial role in bringing world leaders together to drive commitments and coordinate responses to the pressing climate and biodiversity issues.

International days

World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought

June 17

Droughts are among the greatest threats to sustainable development, especially in developing countries, but increasingly so in developed nations too. In fact, forecasts estimate that by 2050 droughts may affect over three-quarters of the world’s population. The number and duration of droughts has increased by 29 percent since 2000, as compared to the two previous decades (WMO 2021). When more than 2.3 billion people already face water stress, this is a huge problem. More.

International days

Sustainable Gastronomy Day

June 18

The UN General Assembly adopted on 21 December 2016 its resolution A/RES/71/246 and designated 18 June as an international observance, Sustainable Gastronomy Day. The decision acknowledges gastronomy as a cultural expression related to the natural and cultural diversity of the world. In the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, and as the Earth is facing a triple planetary crisis of climate disruption, nature loss and pollution, sustainable gastronomy – celebrating seasonal ingredients and producers, preserving wildlife as well as our culinary traditions – is today more relevant than ever. More.

Community Events

ICLEI World Congress 2024

June 18

- June 21

In June 2024, the ICLEI network will come together for the ICLEI World Congress 2024, hosted by the City of São Paulo, Brazil.Every three years, the ICLEI World Congress showcases how local and regional governments across our network are advancing sustainable urban development worldwide. ICLEI’s last World Congress began in 2021 with a Virtual Launch and culminated in 2022 with The Malmö Summit. Register for this year edition here.

Community Events

IUCN Youth Conservation Forum fro Africa (IYCOFA)

June 24

- June 25

The Pre-Forum events ahead of the African Conservation Forum are planned as independent workshops, intended to provide inputs into the discourse at the ACF. They are independently organised by various teams of IUCN staff, members, commissions and councillors and will deliberate on specific topics relevant to the ACF, pulling together key messages and insights that would inform the panels discussions on the first day of the Forum. IYCOFA Theme: Amplifying Youth Voices and Solutions Towards Creating Transformative Responses to the Biodiversity and Climate Crisis in Africa.

Community Events

Africa Conservation Forum

June 26

- June 28

Inspired by the power of the first-ever IUCN Africa Protected Areas Congress held in July 2022, IUCN will host one Africa Conservation Forum (ACF) combining all three sub-regions. About 500 representatives of Union constituents, partners and supporters will gather for the five-day event in Nairobi, Kenya. Learn more here.