INGO/International union of forest research organizations (IUFRO)

Description What is done in the programme or project and why, what results are pursued, who benefits from the activities and who are involved in the implementation.

The International Union of Forest Research Organizations (IUFRO) has a recognized status as an advocate for the international cooperation in forest research and as an educator of research institutions and scientists. IUFRO has 630 member organizations, including all the most significant forest research institutions, such as the Finnish Forest Research Institute (METLA). The partnership agreement between the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland and IUFRO was signed in 2006, intended to enhance the contribution of international research community to international forest related policy processes, especially the work of the United Nations Forum on Forests (UNFF). IUFRO's global programmes include the Special Project on World Forests, Society and Environment (WFSE), initiated by METLA. In addition, IUFRO has launched a new panel on forest science and produces policy brief publications targeted at political decision makers. WFSE has proved to be able to produce multinational and multiscientific information for developing country societies which strengthens political decision-making. The Expert panel has been able to produce basic information for the UN Forum on Forests, among others, and for the COPs of Multilateral Environmental Agreements. In 2014, Finland supports IUFRO with 300, 000 euros. Finland's contribution is directed to research on international forest policy via WFSE project (still coordinated by METLA), to the activities of the Global Forest Expert Panels (GFEP) to support the implementation and synergy of the Rio environmental agreements, as well as to the strengthening of research capacities of developing countries through the Special Programme for Development of Capacities.