02-TS
Agenda item 5
Chemical Safety for Sustainable Development
IFCS/FORUM-V/02-TS
Original: English
25 May 2006
FORUM V
Fifth Session
of the
Intergovernmental Forum on Chemical Safety
Budapest, Hungary
25 - 29 September 2006
************************************
THOUGHT STARTER ON THE FUTURE OF IFCS
Prepared by: Forum Standing Committee
Secretariat: c/o World Health Organization, 20 Avenue Appia, CH-1211 Geneva 27, Switzerland
Tel: +41 (22) 791 3873/3650; Fax: +41 (22) 791 4875; Email: ifcs@who.int; Website: www.ifcs.ch
THOUGHT STARTER
IFCS
Intergovernmental Forum on Chemical Safety
Fifth Session - Forum V
25 - 29 September 2006
IFCS/Forum-V/02-TS
In light of development in the international chemicals regime, that is the adoption of the strategic
approach to international chemicals management (SAICM), it is necessary to review and agree on
the precise role and function of IFCS in this renewed and strengthened international chemicals
regime. This thought starter is intended to provide a basis for the discussion of this issue at IFCS
Forum V though it does not contain all possible options or potential roles for the future of IFCS.
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Table of Contents
1.
Background / Context
1.1
Short overview of history of IFCS, its mandate and achievements
1.2
IFCS Contribution to the further development of a strategic approach to international
chemicals management (SAICM)
1.3
What IFCS does according to IFCS terms of Reference
1.4
Context for the future role of IFCS
2.
Parameters for future role of IFCS
3.
Future Role of IFCS
4.0
3.1
IFCS functions no longer be carried out by IFCS
3.2
Possible Future Roles of IFCS
3.3
Issues to be considered
Actions requested of Forum V
Annex 1:
IFCS Terms of Reference (IFCS/FORUM III/23w, Annex 1, 20 October 2000)
Annex 2:
SAICM Overarching Policy Strategy, Section VII. Implementation and
taking stock of progress (SAICM/ICCM.1/7, Annex II, 8 March 2006)
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1. Background / Context
1.1 Short overview of history of IFCS, its mandate and achievements
In 1992 Heads of State and Government of the UN Member States, assembled in Rio de Janeiro for the
Earth Summit, adopted Agenda 21, thus establishing a framework for the systematic, cooperative action
required to effect the transition to sustainable development. Environmentally sound management of
chemicals is dealt with in Chapter 19 of Agenda 21. The Summit called for improved coordination and
enhanced cooperation among international chemical safety activities and for the establishment of an
intergovernmental mechanism for chemical risk assessment and management. In response as an important
step to strengthening the international cooperation in the chemicals field, governments established the
Intergovernmental Forum on Chemical Safety (IFCS). Its first meeting (Forum I) was in April 1994 at the
International Conference on Chemical Safety, convened by the Executive Heads of UNEP, ILO and WHO.
The Conference adopted the Terms of Reference for the IFCS, establishing the IFCS as a mechanism for cooperation among governments, intergovernmental organizations and non-governmental organizations to
consider all aspects of the assessment and management of chemicals. By its Terms of Reference, the IFCS
was given the mandate to provide policy guidance, identify priorities, develop strategies and make
recommendations to governments, international organizations, intergovernmental bodies and nongovernmental organizations. At Forum I, governments also adopted a Resolution with detailed
recommendations on priorities for action, and took steps to provide for necessary administrative and financial
arrangements for IFCS.
Sessions of the Forum have been held in 1997 (Forum II, Ottawa, Canada), 2000 (Forum III, Salvador,
Brazil) and 2003 (Bangkok, Thailand). Forum V will be held 24-29 September 2006 in Budapest hosted by
the Government of Hungary.
Forum III conducted a full review of the IFCS deciding on its future direction, adopting revised Terms of
Reference and associated guidelines, and assessed the progress that has been made on Chapter 19, Agenda
21. Forum III revised and updated the Priorities for Action that had been adopted by the Forum in 1994
adopting a priority list of issues that would be manageable to implement. Forum III adopted by acclamation
the Bahia Declaration, a statement to reaffirm commitment to the Rio Declaration, and to recommit to the
challenges for chemical safety set in 1992 at the Earth Summit.
Regional Groups have played an important ongoing role in organizing efforts to progress IFCS goals and
carry out its functions. Over 160 governments have designated an IFCS National Focal Point representing
all national departments sharing responsibilities in chemical safety.
Detailed information on the history, structure and activities of the IFCS is available on the IFCS website
(www.ifcs.ch) .
1.2 IFCS Contribution to the further development of a strategic approach to international chemicals
management (SAICM)
At its seventh special session held in February 2002, the Governing Council of the United Nations
Environment Programme (UNEP) adopted decision SS.VII/3, in which it decided that there was a need to
further develop a strategic approach to international chemicals management (SAICM) and endorsed the
IFCS Bahia Declaration and Priorities for Action Beyond 2000 as the foundation of that approach. The
decision requested UNEP to work in consultation and collaboration with Governments, participating
organizations of the Inter-Organizational Programme for the Sound Management of Chemicals (IOMC),
the IFCS, and other stakeholders. The SAICM initiative was endorsed by the World Summit on Sustainable
Development in Johannesburg in September 2002.
Following the IFCS model, a key feature of the SAICM process was its engagement of all sectors of society
with an interest in chemical safety. As co-convenor of the SAICM process and the International Conference
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on Chemicals Management (ICCM), IFCS was in a unique position to support efforts to develop a SAICM,
given its broad mandate regarding chemicals management and its participatory, multi-sectoral approach.
SAICM was discussed extensively during the Fourth Session of the IFCS (Forum IV) held just prior to the
first SAICM preparatory committee meeting (Prep Com1) in Bangkok (1-7 November 2003). These
discussions resulted in a Forum IV "Thought Starter" Report to SAICM PrepCom1. This document,
provided substantive input into the SAICM process as a compilation of issues and views concerning gaps in
present global chemicals policy, obstacles, opportunities and enablers for change, financing and
coordination. It aimed to provide an analytical framework for SAICM discussions. The Forum IV
recommendations and agreed actions on thematic topics also served as a basis for discussion at SAICM
PrepCom 1. IFCS responded to the specific requests of the PrepCom and Regional Groups contributing
meeting papers and as well as conference room papers on a range of topics. The contributed papers are
available on the IFCS website (www.ifcs.ch) .
1.3 What IFCS does according to IFCS terms of Reference
The Purpose, Aims and Functions of the IFCS are specified in its Terms of Reference that were amended at
Forum III in 2000. The IFCS Terms of Reference are listed in Annex 1 to this paper. The Purpose, Aims
and Functions can be summarized as follows:
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identification of priorities for cooperative action and facilitating this cooperation
recommend concerted international strategies
promoting strengthening of national chemicals management coordination mechanisms
identifying gaps in scientific understanding
promoting information exchange and technical cooperation
reviewing effectiveness of relevant ongoing activities
advising governments in their work on chemical safety
promoting cooperation among governmental and nongovernmental organizations
evaluate progress on agreed actions and recommendations
provide clear and consistent advice for cost effective, integrated risk assessment and management
of chemicals using environmentally sound and generally accepted principles, including advice on
alternatives
provide improved delineation and mutual understanding of roles, initiatives and activities both
within and among governments and international organizations having responsibilities for
chemical safety
foster an understanding of the issues
Many of the tasks originally given to the IFCS have now been included in full or part in the International
Conference on Chemicals Management (ICCM) functions (Annex 2).
1.4 Context for the future role of IFCS
During the SAICM process, it became clear that:
 IFCS will not be the institutional framework of SAICM
 however, many think that IFCS could continue to play an important role in the future international
chemicals regime
 at the same time, it is clear that IFCS should not duplicate but support the other institutions and
processes in place
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This context is reflected in the decision that the ICCM has adopted with regard to SAICM:
Resolution adopted by ICCM on 6 February 20061
Intergovernmental Forum on Chemical Safety
The Conference,
Recognizing the unique, multifaceted and significant role which the Intergovernmental Forum on
Chemical Safety has played in the area of sound chemicals management at the international,
regional and national levels,
1.
Invites the Forum to continue its important role in providing an open, transparent and
inclusive forum for discussing issues of common interest and also new and emerging issues, and to
continue to contribute through this to the implementation of the Strategic Approach to International
Chemicals Management and the work of other chemicals-related international organizations and
institutions;
2.
Requests the Strategic Approach secretariat to establish and maintain a working
relationship with the Forum in order to draw upon its expertise.
2. Parameters for future role of IFCS
In discussing the role of IFCS in the new international chemicals regime, the following parameters should
be taken into account:

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

IFCS should not duplicate or conflict with existing processes
IFCS should have an added value by complementing and supporting existing processes
IFCS role should be substantive, internationally recognized and supported with adequate resources
(financial and in-kind means)
IFCS should contribute to the implementation of the Strategic Approach during the ICCM
intersessonal period (e.g. 2006-2009).
3. Future Role of IFCS
3.1 IFCS functions no longer to be carried out by IFCS
In view of the adoption of SAICM and the designation of the ICCM as its oversight body, a substantial
number of IFCS functions should no longer be carried out by IFCS as the mandate for these has been given
to the ICCM (Annex 2), such as
-
to provide analysis and report on progress of governments, international organizations and
intergovernmental bodies in achieving the environmentally sound management of chemicals,
o
o
-
undertakes periodic review of priorities and strategies;
review periodically the effectiveness of relevant ongoing activities to implement
recommended international strategies;
identify priorities for cooperative action on chemical safety,
1
Report of the International Conference on Chemicals Management on the work of its first session
(SAICM/ICCM.1/7), Annex IV, Resolution I/3. http://www.chem.unep.ch/saicm/iccm_sec.htm
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-
assist in securing the collaboration, through governments, of national, regional and international
bodies active in the field of chemical safety, and avoid any duplication of effort in this area;
-
promote the strengthening of national coordinating mechanisms and of national capabilities and
capacities for chemicals management;
-
promote international agreements and commitments on harmonized classification and labelling of
chemicals;
-
advise governments in their work on chemical safety with particular reference to legislative
aspects;
-
promote cooperation among governmental, intergovernmental and non-governmental
organizations and encourage the appropriate distribution of work among organizations and other
bodies within and outside the United Nations system in as clear and consistent a way as possible
-
promote the strengthening of national programmes and international cooperation for the
prevention of, preparedness for, and response to chemical accidents including major industrial
accidents;
-
promote the strengthening of programmes for the prevention of and response to poisoning by
chemicals;
-
Information Exchange Network on the Sound Management of Chemicals (INFOCAP - Central
Coordinating Node (CCN)): the IFCS Secretariat served as the CCN during the start up phase of
INFOCAP. The ICCM, in its consideration of the implementation arrangements for the Strategic
Approach, took up an issue identified the work of the preparatory committee in relation to SAICM
Global Plan of Action activity 214, that is "The permanent host for INFOCAP, with the
appropriate administrative structure and mandate, should be accommodated in the final
arrangements for SAICM implementation, e.g., hosted by the SAICM secretariat." The ICCM
recommended that "the Strategic Approach secretariat initiate discussions on the possible
transfer of INFOCAP for administration by the Strategic Approach secretariat."2 The SAICM
secretariat has communicated its readiness to accept the transfer of the INFOCAP system.
3.2 Possible Future Roles of IFCS
Possible elements of how the future role of IFCS can provide added value to the international chemicals
management framework can be described as:

IFCS should provide a forum for open discussion among countries and all stakeholders in order to
enable a better understanding of the existing challenges through sharing of information including
lessons learnt;

IFCS shall continue to provide a forum for countries and stake-holders for an open brainstorming on
new and emerging issues and thereby may trigger new activities;
Possible roles for the IFCS could include one or more of the following:

Objective
independent
source
of
synthesized
information
about
chemicals
assessment/management safety issues, potential health, environment and socioeconomic impacts
and possible response actions;
2
Information Exchnage Network on Capacity Building for the Sound Management of Chemicals, Progress
Report to Forum V (IFCS/FORUM-V/5 INF)
http://www.who.int/ifcs/documents/forums/forum5/meet_docs/en/index.html
Report of the International Conference on Chemicals Management on the work of its first session
(SAICM/ICCM.1/7) http://www.chem.unep.ch/saicm/iccm_sec.htm
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Preparation of reports on key topics that:
seek to ensure a balance of existing view points and to be policy relevant but not policy
prescriptive
reflect state of the art understanding of subject matter
are based on solid scientific evidence (not ideological views) to guide interventions,
increase credibility and assure prospects of successful action by stakeholders
provide comprehensive (more coherent picture) and fully integrated compilation of
information
provide a platform for developing countries and countries with economies in transition to
bring forth information particular to their country situations
adequately define the problem so that successful identification of appropriate solutions
can be done
translate scientific language into a more accessible language to facilitate bridging the
science - action/risk management gap;
package accurate, relevant & important information in ways that inform & stimulate
action
are based on existing technical report documents/available scientific information;
Foster debate (rather than political positions) - providing access to information and helping the
stakeholders understand, debate and come to its own conclusions - thus, enabling agents of change;
To research, articulate and facilitate solutions.
In carrying out its work, the IFCS should make maximum use of internet facilities.
Such a role may be merged organizationally as part of SAICM implementation or kept distinct to support a
number of the SAICM OPS objectives addressing risk reduction, knowledge & information and capacity
building and technical cooperation.
Results of these discussions in IFCS may then enter the SAICM process and other international chemicals
regimes. The ICCM (SAICM oversight body) will focus on its mandate of the implementation and updating of SAICM.
Forum meetings could be organized:
Option 1: back-to-back (2 days) with an ICCM meeting at the same location,
Option 2: intersessionally between two ICCM meetings, as appropriate.
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3.3
IFCS/Forum-V/02-TS
Issues to be considered
Past strengths and weaknesses, achievements or challenges of the IFCS 3;
One of the values of the IFCS is its open, transparent, and multi-stakeholder approach. The IFCS provides
an opportunity for all chemical safety interests to participate in discussions about how to improve
chemicals management. Forum meetings are inclusive, in that all sectors are represented, and that
governments and non-government interests (industry, public interest groups, science, workers) have
standing to participate. The approach has been a catalyst for cooperation and coordination among and
within stakeholder groups, for example between industry and public interest NGOs. It has also enabled
stakeholders to bring forward and discuss controversial issues in an open and flexible working environment.
Strengths of IFCS can be summarized as:
 Provides a forum for multi-sectoral and multi-disciplinary discussion (open to and includes all sectors
relevant to sound management of chemicals);
 Provides a vehicle for governments, particularly developing countries and CIET, and NGOs to directly
contribute to the development of ways of working for the protection of health and the environment
from chemicals;
 Creates an open forum for discussion and debate which is not constrained by the structures and process
of formal negotiations; national concerns can be more effectively expressed directly by participation in
an open, non-institutional forum;
 Enables discussion and a timely response to new and emerging issues, given its flexible, noninstitutional nature;
 Distils complex chemicals issues into concrete, measurable goals for the international community and
national governments;
 The IFCS mechanism provide governments “greater” flexibility/freedom in the work to be innovative
and build partnerships;
 Brings together a wide range of expertise to form recommendations and provide practical advice and
guidance to those responsible for actions;
 Stimulates synergy amongst countries and regions in working toward a common vision;
 Sets the agenda for and stimulates research regarding chemicals management and new and emerging
environmental health issues;
 Assists in facilitating collaboration and building partnerships among governments, international,
national and regional bodies active in chemical safety;
 Facilitated the development of a global network of peer relations among chemicals management
practitioners, which did not exist before the IFCS was established. For many participants, this is one
of the major benefits of Forum participation;
 Assists in identifying gaps in scientific knowledge and promotes information exchange;
 Provides an accountability mechanism, through monitoring and reporting initiatives;
 Promotes and provides a means for sharing information about best practices;
 Provides information and direction to assist countries in finding solutions, information, and support for
chemicals management initiatives;
 Gives particular attention to regional activity - this has been successful in fostering information sharing
within regions;
 Identify and engage regional capacities that are not linked to the international political chemical
process (as Universities, Research institutes and experts);
3
SAICM/PREPCOM.3/INF/7 - International Framework for Chemicals Management:
Key Lessons from the Experience of the Intergovernmental Forum on Chemical Safety Submitted by: The
IFCS President http://www.chem.unep.ch/saicm/prepcom3/Default.htm
A document was prepared by the IFCS President, based on informal FSC discussions, to provide SAICM
PrepCom3 with some reflections on the IFCS experience. The aim was to assist the PrepCom in designing
the most effective international institutional arrangements for the monitoring and oversight of SAICM. The
document was not a comprehensive analysis, but highlighted key issues and lessons from the experience of
the IFCS in promoting international coordination and cooperation in implementing the chemical safety
goals outlined in Agenda 21.
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Consider share and differentiated responsibilities of all stakeholders and governments and promote
intersectorial participation and actions particularly at the regional and local levels;
Promote south south cooperation and regional cooperation with regional experts;
Materials and information often provided in local languages.
Among the major activities of the IFCS since it was established in 1994 are:

Forums in 1994, 1997, 2000 and 2003 which adopted recommendations aimed at providing policy
guidance, setting priorities and coordinating and building partnerships on a wide range of topics in
chemical safety activity; of particular note are:
o
o
o
o
Forum I - Priorities for Action - provided initial guidance to governments and other
stakeholder for the implementation of Agenda 21, Chapter 19 by elaborating the basic
requirements for chemicals management at the national level (e.g. national profiles,
interministerial coordinating mechanisms) and international levels, and set priorities and
timelines for action in the other programme areas.
Forum II - recommendations that guided and stimulated international efforts on several
topics including: GHS to more forward as non-binding international instrument and
outlining immediate work to address the emerging issues of EDCs such as the preparation
of a state of the science report and delineation of testing guidelines.
Forum III - Bahia Declaration and Priorities for Action Beyond 2000 have been used as
the basis for the SAICM process.
Forum IV - "Thought Starter" Report to SAICM PrepCom1. This document as a
compilation of issues and views concerning gaps in present global chemicals policy,
obstacles, opportunities and enablers for change, financing and coordination provided an
analytical framework for SAICM discussions.

Forum sessions as well as IFCS intersessional meetings have also provided venues for in depth
discussions on a range of priority topics including: acutely toxic pesticides, children and chemical
safety, hazard data generation and availability, illegal international traffic, PRTRs, capacity
building, information exchange mechanisms, widening gap between developed and developing
countries;

the POPs Assessment Reports for UNEP in 1996 (IFCS Experts Meeting, Manila 17-19 June 1996
and IFCS ad hoc Working Group on POPs Meeting, Manila 21-22 June 1996), which provided the
basis for international negotiations that led to the Stockholm Convention;

President's Progress Reports 1997 (CSD and Rio+5), 2000, 2003 on the progress in the
implementation of the Priorities for Action and other matters concerning relevant chemical safety
issues based on the established national reporting process.
Weaknesses of IFCS are:
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IFCS participants have identified priorities and make recommendations that cut across or are
inconsistent with the established priorities or resource allocations of sectoral organisations to which
they are directed;
IFCS recommendations do not always carry, both nationally and internationally, the authority and
influence that participants might expect or wish. Factors contributing to this problem include:

the limited mandate participants may bring to meetings;
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limited influence of participants within their national governments;
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limited consideration and follow-up action on IFCS recommendations by national governments at
IGO governing bodies;
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lack of political visibility and importance of chemicals issues;
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low level of political awareness of chemicals management in general, and the IFCS in particular;
Regions have not yet been able to implement cooperative actions, and regional funding has not been
adequate;
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Despite IFCS efforts, the level of communication and dissemination of information within and between
governments and stakeholders remains limited, due to factors such as work practices, language barriers,
staff turn-over, and resource constraints;
Lack of participation of donor organizations, both government and private.
Organizations having a major role in chemical safety4
Concerning multisector, multistakeholder approaches:

Ten global intergovernmental organisations 5 (IGOs) have a major role in chemical safety; none of
them has chemical safety as its only, or even major, responsibility, most are limited to one sector and
provide for limited restricted participation of non-governmental and intergovernmental organizations.
Each governing body sets the policies and priorities for the organization and operate according to
established rules of procedure that setting out the process and manner for the participation of nonmembers and intergovernmental and nongovernmental organizations. To date only 3 governing bodies
have considered SAICM.

Another entity in the international system that has a role in chemical safety, is the UN Economic and
Social Council (ECOSOC), especially through some of its sub-committees and functional commissions
addressing specific topics such as classification and labelling of chemicals.

Further, there are regional bodies that have taken up aspects of chemical safety in their work
programme, and several specialised conventions have been developed on chemical safety e.g. UNECE
is the home of the Convention on Long-Range Transboundary Air Pollution (LRTAP), which has
subsidiary agreements covering persistent organic pollutants and heavy metals, among others.

International Conference on Chemicals Management (ICCM: SAICM oversight body). The ICCM has
been established to be a high level ministerial negotiating policy conference. Its functions are presented
in Annex 2. As adopted in the SAICM Overarching Policy Strategy, "The Conference will be
reconvened in 2009, 2012, 2015 and 2020 to undertake periodic reviews of progress in the
implementation of the Strategic Approach"6.

Considering the possible future role of IFCS, no organization currently fulfils the role described in
section 3.2 above.
Overall sustainability

The IFCS relies on voluntary funding as most international chemicals efforts, which encourages
innovation, but also creates instability due to competing priority interests and activities needing
funding.

Recent resourcing for IFCS since the initiation of the SAICM negotiations has been uncertain and
uneven and the FSC has discussed and should consider further contingencies depending on the
outcome of IFCS’ Future Role and pending support.

IFCS has been established to operate on a participatory, lead sponsor approach. As such, governments
and organizations share the responsibility for inter-session work through in-kind resource contributions,
ensuring that the Forum remains participatory and inclusive, and that stakeholders are engaged
4
SAICM/PREPCOM.3/INF/6 - International Aspects of Chemicals Management post-SAICM adoption tracking progress, promotion implementation and follow-up
http://www.chem.unep.ch/saicm/prepcom3/Default.htm
5
The global IGOs with substantive chemical safety roles are: FAO, ILO, OECD, UNIDO, UNEP,
UNITAR, WHO, UNDP, the GEF and the World Bank.
6
Report of the International Conference on Chemicals Management on the work of its first session
(SAICM/ICCM.1/7), Annex II, Overarching Policy Strategy http://www.chem.unep.ch/saicm/iccm_sec.htm
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between Forum sessions. A small secretariat thus supports the IFCS in an enabling and facilitating
capacity.

While the WHO serves as the administrative organization for the IFCS, the IFCS secretariat is
autonomous. This arrangement has provided the flexibility and responsiveness needed for a multisector, multi-stakeholder programme.

Host government for Forum sessions is responsible for all local arrangements and costs of the meeting
including but not limited to venue facilities, interpretation, translation of document produced in session,
equipment.
4. Actions requested of Forum V
Forum V should consider the future role of IFCS. The following Resolution and associated Guidelines are
presented for the consideration of the Forum.
Resolution at Forum V of 29 September 2006
Resolution on the Intergovernmental Forum on Chemical Safety (IFCS)
The fifth session of the Intergovernmental Forum on Chemical Safety,
Having met in Budapest, at the invitation of the Government of Hungary, from 25 to 29
September 2006,
Having regard to the adoption of the strategic approach to international chemicals
management by the International Conference on Chemical Management on 6 February 2006,
Having regard to the invitation by the International Conference on Chemical Management to
the Forum to continue its important role in providing an open, transparent and inclusive forum for
discussing issues of common interest and also new and emerging issues, and to continue to contribute
through this to the implementation of the Strategic Approach and the work of other chemicals-related
international organizations and institutions,
1. Decides to adopt the revised terms of reference of the Intergovernmental Forum on Chemical
Safety as given in Annex I.
2. Invites all Governments, intergovernmental organizations and non-governmental
organizations, including from the private sector, to provide voluntary extrabudgetary resources
(financial and in-kind) in support of the secretariat in the fulfilment of its functions;
3. Invites WHO to continue to serve as the administrative organization for IFCS.
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Annex I
Intergovernmental Forum on Chemical Safety
Terms of Reference
Proposed Revision
1.
Purpose, Aims and Functions
1.1
The Intergovernmental Forum on Chemical Safety (hereinafter called 'the Forum') is a
non-institutional arrangement to provide an open transparent and inclusive forum for discussion of issues of
common interest and also new and emerging issues among countries and all stakeholders in order to enable
a better understanding of the existing challenges. The Forum will research, articulate and facilitate solutions
through sharing of information including lessons learnt.
1.2
The purpose of the Forum discussions on issues and topics of priority concern is to contribute to
the implementation of Agenda 21, Chapter 19 (Environmentally Sound Management Of Toxic Chemicals
Including Prevention Of Illegal International Traffic In Toxic And Dangerous Product), the implementation
of the Strategic Approach to International Chemicals Management and the work of chemicals/related
international organizations and institutions.
1.3
It aims to foster an understanding of the issues and an improved delineation and mutual
understanding of roles, initiatives and activities both within and among governments and organizations
having responsibilities for chemical safety.
1.4
The functions of the Forum shall be to:

provide a forum for open discussion among countries and all stakeholders in order to
enable a better understanding of the existing challenges through sharing of information
including lessons learnt;

provide a forum for countries and stake-holders for an open brainstorming on new and
emerging issues and thereby may trigger new activities;

assist in identifying gaps in scientific knowledge and promote information exchange about
scientific issues and technology;

provide objective independent source of synthesized information about chemicals
assessment/management safety issues, potential health, environment and socioeconomic
impacts and possible response actions;

preparation of reports on key topics that:

seek to ensure a balance of existing view points and to be policy relevant but not
policy prescriptive;

reflect the state of the art understanding of subject matter;

are based on solid scientific evidence (not ideological views) to guide
interventions, increase credibility and assure prospects of successful action by
stakeholders;

provide comprehensive coherent picture and fully integrating all sectoral issues;

provide a platform for developing countries and countries with economies in
transition to bring forth information particular to their country situations;

adequately define the problem so that successful identification of appropriate
solutions can be done,
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Intergovernmental Forum on Chemical Safety
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3.
IFCS/Forum-V/02-TS
translate scientific language into a more accessible language to facilitate
bridging the science - action/risk management gap,
package accurate, relevant & important information in ways that inform &
stimulate action,
are based on existing technical report documents/available scientific information;

assist in fostering cooperation of national, regional and international bodies active in the
field of chemical safety, and avoid any duplication of effort in this area;

make recommendations for further activities and work;

perform other functions in pursuance of the purposes and aims of the Forum, as agreed by
the Government Participants.
Participation
3.1
All Member States of the United Nations, of its Specialized Agencies and of the IAEA
(International Atomic Energy Agency) shall be invited to participate in the Forum ("Government
Participants"). Associate Members of any of the Specialized Agencies shall also be invited to participate,
without the right to vote, in the Forum.
3.2
Relevant United Nations bodies and Specialized Agencies, as well as intergovernmental
organizations representing subregional and regional geographic, political and economic groups of countries
involved in the field of chemical safety ("Intergovernmental Participants"), shall be invited to participate,
without the right to vote, in the Forum.
3.3
Non-governmental organizations concerned with science, health, workers' interests, the
environment, consumers and industry, involved in the field of chemical safety shall be invited to participate,
without the right to vote, in the Forum ("Non-governmental Participants").
3.4
The term "participants" in these Terms of Reference refers to all of the above governments,
Associate Members and intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations.
3.5
Participants shall have the right to attend all IFCS organized meetings (e.g. regional, ad hoc
working groups, plenary etc).
4.
Government Representation
The representative of each government should be a senior official concerned with chemical safety,
including health and environmental issues. Advisers as appropriate may accompany each representative. It
is expected that governments would ensure that their delegations reflect the full range of national interests.
5.
Sessions
Subject to availability of funds, it is expected that sessions of the Forum will be held at intervals of
2-3 years.
Option 1: back-to-back (2 days) with an ICCM meeting at the same location
Option 2: intersessionally between two ICCM meetings, as appropriate.
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Intergovernmental Forum on Chemical Safety
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6.
IFCS/Forum-V/02-TS
Officers
At each session, the Forum shall elect, from among the representatives of the Government
Participants, Officers consisting of a President and five Vice-Presidents. They shall take office immediately
after closure of the session during which they are elected and hold office until the end of the session
following their election. Collectively, Officers carry out responsibilities delegated by a Session of the
Forum or by the Forum Standing Committee to coordinate and support their work. Vice President shall
communicate to IFCS National Focal Points information on IFCS matters and solicit and organize input
from countries and other Forum participants on the region on issues and matters being addressed by the
Forum.
7.
Forum Standing Committee
7.1
There shall be a Forum Standing Committee to:
(a)
bring forward new issues for their timely inclusion on the agenda at Sessions of the
Forum;
(b)
provide guidance on the development of documents and other items on the agenda of the
Forum following the practice of lead country/sponsor/organization approach to preparing materials
for agenda items;
(c)
assist in fund-raising for the Trust Fund and for funds to support participation in IFCS
activities;
(d)
assist in regional contributions to the Forum's work with countries and organizations in
respective regions and constituencies;
(e)
channel the views of participants into the planning of sessions of the Forum; to the ICCM
and other international chemicals regimes, as appropriate; and,
(g)
Except for the President who, as an independent chairperson acts in accordance with the
recommendations of the Forum as a whole, the members of the Forum Standing Committee will
serve as conduits for the views of participant countries in their respective IFCS regions or
respective NGO or IGO constituency. To the extent possible, consultations and discussions should
be undertaken with those countries or organizations by members of the Forum Standing
Committee. The Forum Standing Committee should actively support such efforts e.g. by allowing
time for consultations or making meeting materials available.
(h)
perform other functions referred to it by the Forum.
7.2
The Forum Standing Committee shall consist of the elected officers, the immediate Past President,
the Chairperson, pro tem., of the Inter-Organization Coordinating Committee (IOCC) of the InterOrganization Programme for the Sound Management of Chemicals (IOMC), a government participant
representing the host country for the next Forum session, twelve government participants to be elected at
each session of the Forum (taking into account equitable regional and geographic representation), and four
representatives of non-governmental organizations designated by non-governmental participants present at
the session and representing the interests of science, the public, industry and workers.
7.3
The Executive Secretary shall be an ex officio member of the Forum Standing Committee.
8.0
Ad hoc Working Groups
Subject to the availability of funds, the Forum, or the Forum Standing Committee may establish
ad hoc Working Groups of Government and other agreed participants for a set period of time to undertake
specific tasks. In accordance with the decisions of the Forum, or the Forum Standing Committee
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establishing the ad hoc Working Group concerned, other participants may participate, without the right to
vote, in meetings of ad hoc Working Groups.
9.0
National Focal Points
9.1
Each country should have a single National Focal Point for the purpose of communication with
IFCS. The National Focal Point should be a designated government position, preferably in the Department
or Agency with responsibility for coordination of chemical safety activities within the country.
9.2
The National Focal Point should provide the Forum with information on national priorities and
progress respecting the environmentally sound management of chemicals. The National Focal Point should
also disseminate information on Forum activities within the country, including to appropriate governmental
and non-governmental organizations.
10.
Administering Organization
Acting on instructions from the Forum Standing Committee, the President shall enter into
agreements with an organization approved by the Forum Standing Committee respecting the employment
of a secretariat and administrative services (including accommodations) required by the Secretariat.
11.
Secretariat
The Forum, the Forum Standing Committee and ad hoc Working Groups shall be served by a
Secretariat. The Secretariat should establish and maintain a working relationship with the SAICM
Secretariat.
12.
Decisions
12.1
The Forum shall make every effort to reach agreement on all matters by consensus. If all efforts to
reach consensus have been exhausted and no agreement reached, the decision shall, as a last resort, be taken
by a simple majority of the Governments present and voting. Each Government Participant shall have one
vote. For the purposes of these Terms of Reference, the phrase "Government Participants present and
voting" means Government Participants casting a valid affirmative or negative vote. Government
Participants abstaining from voting are considered as not voting.
12.2
Elections of Officers of the Forum shall be decided by consensus; where consensus cannot be
achieved, the election shall be decided by secret ballot.
13.
Procedures
The Forum shall adopt, and may, at any session, amend its own rules of procedure. The Forum
Standing Committee and ad hoc Working Groups shall apply, mutatis mutandis, the rules of procedure
adopted by the Forum.
14.
Agenda
The Secretariat, in consultation with and under the guidance of the President of the Forum, shall
prepare a Provisional Agenda for each session of the Forum, including a recommendation for the meeting
rapporteur. Any participant in the Forum may request the Secretariat to include specific items in the
Provisional Agenda prior to its distribution. The Provisional Agenda shall be communicated to all
participants in the Forum at least two months before the opening of the session. After the communication of
the Provisional Agenda and before the adoption of the Agenda by the Forum, participants may propose
only items of an important and urgent nature.
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Intergovernmental Forum on Chemical Safety
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15.
IFCS/Forum-V/02-TS
Budget and Expenses
15.1
The Forum Standing Committee shall prepare for consideration by each session of the Forum an
estimate of expenditure related to the Forum, the Forum Standing Committee, and ad hoc Working Groups
established by the Forum and a Secretariat, together with information concerning expenditures for the
period since the last Forum. This estimate, with such modifications as may be considered appropriate by the
Forum in the light of potential funding, shall subsequently be considered in the budget of the Forum.
15.2
Any types of expenses related to participation in the Forum, Forum Standing Committee, regional
meetings or ad hoc Working Groups are to be borne by participants unless otherwise agreed by the Forum.
Nonetheless, the Forum, through its secretariat, shall undertake efforts towards the obtaining of funding in
order to assure the participation of representatives of developing countries, countries with economies in
transition, and non-governmental organizations.
16.
Reports
The Forum shall consider and adopt a report at each session. A statement summarizing minority
views will be included when appropriate. Reports will be distributed to all participants in the Forum.
Reports of the forum will be made available to the International Conference on Chemicals
Management and other international chemicals regimes as appropriate.
17.
Languages
17.1
The working languages of the Forum shall be Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian and
Spanish.
17.2
The agenda and final report of sessions of the Forum shall be in Arabic, Chinese, English, French,
Russian and Spanish. All working documents shall include a section “Issues for consideration and action
required by the Forum” which will be translated into Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian and
Spanish. Simultaneous interpretation will be provided at sessions of the Forum.
17.3
The working language of the Forum Standing Committee is English. The Forum Standing
Committee will consider the need for other languages on a case by case basis.
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Intergovernmental Forum on Chemical Safety
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Guidelines
THE ROLE OF THE PRESIDENT7
The Office of President was created by resolution of the International Conference on Chemical Safety
held in Stockholm, Sweden in April 1994. The President is appointed by a government elected to hold
Office at a session of the Forum and serves from the conclusion of the session in which elected until
the conclusion of the session following.
The President represents all participants of the Forum when carrying out official functions, whether
participating in IFCS events, addressing international conferences or meeting people in a wide range of
informal settings. The President must strive to demonstrate impartiality and act in a fair and impartial
manner to all participants. Duties and responsibilities of the President include the following:

As the presiding officer in the Forum, the President acts as its chairman, directs discussions in
plenary sessions, ensures observance with the IFCS Terms of Reference and rules of procedure,
and provides guidance for the efficient conduct of business during and between sessions of the
Forum.

The President chairs the Forum Standing Committee and has the authority to convene meetings
either at his or her initiative or in response to requests from members of the Forum Standing
Committee. The President will assist the secretariat in developing the proposed agenda for
meetings and teleconferences.

The President ensures that election of Officers of the Forum and members of the Forum Standing
Committee are conducted in accordance with the Terms of Reference and the practices of the
Forum. The President shall not serve as the representative of his or her government at IFCS
meetings.

The President actively promotes the IFCS in all regions of the world, and communicates
information relating to the work of the Forum to governments, relevant NGOs and others on a
regular basis.

The President advises and assists the Vice-Presidents in the organization of regional and subregional meetings.

The President shall consult the World Health Organization (WHO) on arrangements for the
facilities and services to be provided by WHO for the IFCS Executive Secretary and other IFCS
staff.

The President provides advice and support to the Executive Secretary as required to ensure the
orderly conduct of day-to-day business, including promoting awareness of the IFCS and seeking
funding for its activities.
7
Guidelines on The Role of The President, adopted by Forum III (IFCS/FORUM III/23w, Annex 2) no changes proposed http://www.who.int/ifcs/documents/forums/forum3/en/index2.html
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Guidelines
REGIONAL ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
FOR VICE PRESIDENTS8
In carrying out its work, the Intergovernmental Forum on Chemical Safety (IFCS or Forum)
emphasises regional and sub-regional cooperation. Thus, it is incumbent on the Vice Presidents of the
Forum to:

actively promote the IFCS in their region/subregion, including recommendations from the Forum;

communicate to governments, relevant non-governmental organizations and others information on
IFCS matters;

support the organization of sub-regional cooperation;

foster good intersectoral contacts throughout the region/subregion, having in mind the specific
institutional and administrative framework of each country, and helping to promote an increased
understanding of the various role and responsibilities of the different sectors;

solicit and organize input from countries and other Forum participants in the region/subregion on
issues and matters being addressed by the Forum, including the identification of
regional/subregional priorities;

represent regional views at Forum, Forum Standing Committee and other meetings;

convene regional meetings, and support sub-regional meetings where appropriate, with broad
participation, including that of non-governmental and intergovernmental organizations, between
Forum meetings and, as appropriate, during IFCS meetings;

organize regional efforts for election of officers of the Forum and members of the Forum Standing
Committee, in accordance with the IFCS Terms of Reference and general guidance provided by
the President;

organize nomination and designation of regional representatives to IFCS ad hoc working groups,
coordinating groups and committees, ensuring equitable geographical representation for the region;
and

work in close collaboration with the IFCS National Focal Points in their region, assisted by the
Executive Secretary as required.
8
Guidelines on the Regional Roles and Responsibilities for Vice Presidents, adopted by Forum IV
(IFCS/FORUM IV/16w, Annex 8) - no changes proposed
http://www.who.int/ifcs/documents/forums/forum4/final_report/en/index.html
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Guidelines
IFCS NATIONAL FOCAL POINTS9
The following criteria are intended as guidelines to be adopted, as appropriate, according to
organizational structures and coordinating mechanisms in each government.
1.
Each government should have a single National Focal Point identified by the respective
Ministry or Department where the National Focal Point is located, or by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
as appropriate to act as conduit for communication on IFCS activities and information dissemination.
The IFCS President and Executive Secretary will be in communication with governments in order to
ascertain their position with regard to the nomination.
2.
The Focal Point should be a designated government position, not a person, and be at a
sufficiently high level so that all national departments sharing responsibilities in chemical safety
(health, environment, agriculture, industry, etc.) and their respective concerns can be fully addressed.
If possible, it should be located in the Department or Agency that has the responsibility of coordinating
national chemical safety activities. Some countries, however, may find it more appropriate for their
country's needs to nominate a particular individual as Focal Point.
3.
The Focal Point, with guidance from the Secretariat, as required, should promote intersectoral
coordinating efforts and develop a mechanism for disseminating information within the country on
IFCS activities to appropriate governmental and non-governmental organizations and for providing
national inputs into policy directions and recommendations of the IFCS.
4.
The Focal Point for the IFCS should liaise with the SAICM focal points to facilitate the work
of the IFCS and promote the sound management of chemicals.
5.
Governments should seek to ensure continuity of National Focal Points. The Forum
Secretariat should be advised of any changes by the respective Ministry or Department where the
National Focal Point is located, or by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs as appropriate. The representative
of a government attending each session of the Forum is requested to inform the Secretariat, upon
registration, about any new designation of their National Focal Point.
6.
Where a government has not yet identified a National Focal Point, the Forum Secretariat
should communicate through the respective Ministry of Foreign Affairs until a Focal Point has been
nominated.
9
Proposed revisions to Guidelines for IFCS National Focal Points adopted by Forum IV
(IFCS/FORUM IV/16w, Annex 9)
http://www.who.int/ifcs/documents/forums/forum4/final_report/en/index.html
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FORUM STANDING COMMITTEE10
Composition and Working procedures
Composition and elected members
President
5 Vice-Presidents
1 IOMC (Chairperson of IOCC)11
4 NGOs12 - industry, science, public interest, workers
2 Africa
2 Central and Eastern Europe
2 Latin America & Caribbean
3 Asia and the Pacific
3 Western Europe and Other Groups
Host Country for next Forum meeting
Immediate past president of the IFCS
This gives a total of 25 participants.
The Executive Secretary of the IFCS will support the Forum Standing Committee.
Working procedures

To the extent possible the Forum Standing Committee will undertake its work through correspondence
and teleconferencing.

The President and Executive Secretary will develop the proposed agenda for meetings and
teleconferences in consultation with other members of the Forum Standing Committee.

The working language will be English, with the provision of interpretation during meetings decided on
a case by case basis.

To provide for consistency and involvement, alternates should be designated to participate in meetings
only as an exception. Members may, subject to prior discussion with the President, be accompanied at
meetings by co-workers where their expertise is specifically required, keeping in mind that the
effectiveness of the work of the group is best served by keeping the attendance as small as possible.

A government member, when first joining the Forum Standing Committee will nominate another
government, as agreed to in its regional group, to act as an alternate or substitute when necessary. The
Executive Secretary could call on this alternate or substitute government, as appropriate.

The President has the authority to convene meetings either at his or her initiative or in response to
requests from members of the Forum Standing Committee.

The Forum Standing Committee will keep the IFCS participants regularly informed on their work.
Various means will be considered, including the issuing of a “news bulletin” letter as well as posting
information on the Internet. The papers and records of the Standing Committee will be made available
to the participants of the IFCS upon request.
10
Proposed revisions to the Forum Standing Committee Terms of Reference adopted at Forum III
(IFCS/FORUM III/23w, Annex 5) http://www.who.int/ifcs/documents/forums/forum3/en/index2.html
11
IOMC - Inter-Organization Programme for the Sound Management of Chemicals
IOCC – Inter-Organization Coordinating Committee
12
Non-governmental organizations
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Intergovernmental Forum on Chemical Safety
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IFCS/Forum-V/02-TS
ANNEX 1
Intergovernmental Forum on Chemical Safety
Third Session - Forum III Final Report
IFCS/FORUM III/23w
Annex 113
October 2000
Intergovernmental Forum on Chemical Safety
Terms of Reference
1.
Purpose and Aims
1.1
The Intergovernmental Forum on Chemical Safety (hereinafter called 'the Forum') is a
non-institutional arrangement to provide analysis and report on progress of governments, international
organizations and intergovernmental bodies in achieving the environmentally sound management of
chemicals, and to provide advice, guidance and make recommendations.
1.2
The Forum seeks consensus amongst representatives of governments, in consultation and
collaboration with other participants (see paragraph 3), on the development of priorities and strategies for
the implementation of Agenda 21, Chapter 19 (Environmentally Sound Management Of Toxic Chemicals
Including Prevention Of Illegal International Traffic In Toxic And Dangerous Products) and related issues,
and undertakes periodic review of such strategies.
1.3
The purpose of the Forum is to provide policy guidance with particular emphasis on regional and
sub-regional cooperation. It aims to develop strategies in a coordinated and integrated manner and foster an
understanding of the issues. In promoting the required support needed to discharge these functions, the
Forum will engage the attention of governments, donor agencies and financing institutions on the need for
adequate resources.
1.4
The Forum shall provide:
(a)
clear and consistent advice for cost-effective, integrated risk assessment and management
of chemicals using environmentally sound and generally accepted principles, including advice on
alternatives to banned or severely restricted chemicals;
(b)
improved delineation and mutual understanding of roles, initiatives and activities both
within and among governments and international organizations having responsibilities for
chemical safety.
2.
Functions
The functions of the Forum shall be to:
(a)
identify priorities for cooperative action on chemical safety, advise and, where
appropriate, recommend concerted international strategies for hazard identification and risk
assessment of chemicals, including occupational exposure, and for environmentally sound
management of chemicals, including risk reduction programmes and risk communication,
particularly taking into account the special needs of developing countries;
13
http://www.who.int/ifcs/documents/forums/forum3/en/index2.html
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Intergovernmental Forum on Chemical Safety
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(b)
assist in securing the collaboration, through governments, of national, regional and
international bodies active in the field of chemical safety, and avoid any duplication of effort in
this area;
(c)
promote the strengthening of national coordinating mechanisms and of national
capabilities and capacities for chemicals management, especially in relation to infrastructure
building, training, education, research and monitoring, and provision of information;
(d)
promote international agreements and commitments on harmonized classification and
labelling of chemicals;
(e)
assist in identifying gaps in scientific knowledge and promote information exchange and
scientific and technical cooperation, including training, and education and technology transfer;
(f)
review periodically the effectiveness of relevant ongoing activities to implement
recommended international strategies concerning chemical safety and make recommendations for
further activities and, where necessary, advise on the strengthening or establishing the necessary
follow-up mechanisms;
(g)
advise governments in their work on chemical safety with particular reference to
legislative aspects, promote cooperation among governmental, intergovernmental and nongovernmental organizations and encourage the appropriate distribution of work among
organizations and other bodies within and outside the United Nations system in as clear and
consistent a way as possible;
(h)
promote the strengthening of national programmes and international cooperation for the
prevention of, preparedness for, and response to chemical accidents including major industrial
accidents;
(i)
promote the strengthening of programmes for the prevention of and response to poisoning
by chemicals; and,
(j)
perform other functions in pursuance of the purposes and aims of the Forum, as agreed by
the Government Participants.
3.
Participation
3.1
All Member States of the United Nations, of its Specialized Agencies and of the IAEA
(International Atomic Energy Agency) shall be invited to participate in the Forum ("Government
Participants"). Associate Members of any of the Specialized Agencies shall also be invited to participate,
without the right to vote, in the Forum.
3.2
Relevant United Nations bodies and Specialized Agencies, as well as intergovernmental
organizations representing subregional and regional geographic, political and economic groups of countries
involved in the field of chemical safety ("Intergovernmental Participants"), shall be invited to participate,
without the right to vote, in the Forum.
3.3
International non-governmental organizations concerned with science, health,
workers' interests, the environment, consumers and industry, involved in the field of chemical safety shall
be invited to participate, without the right to vote, in the Forum ("Non-governmental Participants").
3.4
The term "participants" in these Terms of Reference refers to all of the above governments,
Associate Members and intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations.
3.5
Participants shall have the right to attend all Forum organized meetings (e.g. regional, ad hoc
working groups, plenary etc). Exceptions should be for specific, limited and sensitive topics. The reasons
for exclusion should be stated one day in advance to the secretariat.
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Intergovernmental Forum on Chemical Safety
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4.
IFCS/Forum-V/02-TS
Government Representation
The representative of each government should be a senior official concerned with chemical safety,
including health and environmental issues. Advisers as appropriate may accompany each representative. It
is expected that governments would ensure that their delegations reflect the full range of national interests.
5.
Sessions
Subject to availability of funds, it is expected that sessions of the Forum will be held at intervals of
2-3 years. Periodically, sessions will review progress on Chapter 19 of Agenda 21 and the need for further
sessions, as recommended by the Forum Standing Committee.
6.
Officers
At each session, the Forum shall elect, from among the representatives of the Government
Participants, Officers consisting of a President and five Vice-Presidents. They shall take office immediately
after closure of the session during which they are elected and hold office until the end of the session
following their election. Collectively, Officers carry out responsibilities delegated by a Session of the
Forum or by the Forum Standing Committee to coordinate and support their work.
7.
Forum Standing Committee
7.1
There shall be a Forum Standing Committee to:
(a)
bring forward new issues for their timely inclusion on the agenda at Sessions of the
Forum;
(b)
provide guidance on the development of documents and other items on the agenda of the
Forum;
(c)
assist in fund-raising for the Trust Fund and for funds to support participation in IFCS
activities;
(d)
assist in regional efforts;
(e)
channel the views of participants into the planning of sessions of the Forum;
(f)
coordinate taking forward IFCS recommendations through national representatives to the
governing bodies of international organizations, as appropriate;
(g)
coordinate transmittal of IFCS reports and information to the UN Commission on
Sustainable Development, as appropriate; and,
(h)
perform other functions referred to it by the Forum.
7.2
The Forum Standing Committee shall consist of the elected officers, the immediate Past President,
the Chairperson, pro tem., of the Inter-Organization Coordinating Committee (IOCC) of the InterOrganization Programme for the Sound Management of Chemicals (IOMC), a government participant
representing the host country for the next Forum session, twelve government participants to be elected at
each session of the Forum (taking into account equitable regional and geographic representation), and four
representatives of non-governmental organizations designated by non-governmental participants present at
the session and representing the interests of science, the public, industry and workers.
7.3
The Executive Secretary shall be an ex officio member of the Forum Standing Committee.
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Intergovernmental Forum on Chemical Safety
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8.0
IFCS/Forum-V/02-TS
Ad hoc Working Groups
Subject to the availability of funds, the Forum, or the Forum Standing Committee may establish
ad hoc Working Groups of Government and other agreed participants for a set period of time to undertake
specific tasks. In accordance with the decisions of the Forum, or the Forum Standing Committee
establishing the ad hoc Working Group concerned, other participants may participate, without the right to
vote, in meetings of ad hoc Working Groups.
9.0
National Focal Points
9.1
Each country should have a single National Focal Point for the purpose of communication with
IFCS. The National Focal Point should be a designated government position at a policy level, preferably in
the Department or Agency with responsibility for coordination of chemical safety activities within the
country.
9.2
The National Focal Point should provide the Forum with information on national priorities and
progress respecting the environmentally sound management of chemicals. The National Focal Point should
also disseminate information on Forum activities within the country, including to appropriate governmental
and non-governmental organizations.
10.
Administering Organization
Acting on instructions from the Forum Standing Committee, the President shall enter into
agreements with an organization approved by the Forum Standing Committee respecting the employment
of a secretariat and administrative services (including accommodations) required by the Secretariat.
11.
Secretariat
The Forum, the Forum Standing Committee and ad hoc Working Groups shall be served by a
Secretariat.
12.
Decisions
12.1
The Forum shall make every effort to reach agreement on all matters by consensus. If all efforts to
reach consensus have been exhausted and no agreement reached, the decision shall, as a last resort, be
taken by a simple majority of the Governments present and voting. Each Government Participant shall have
one vote. For the purposes of these Terms of Reference, the phrase "Government Participants present and
voting" means Government Participants casting a valid affirmative or negative vote. Government
Participants abstaining from voting are considered as not voting.
12.2
Elections of Officers of the Forum shall be decided by consensus; where consensus cannot be
achieved, the election shall be decided by secret ballot.
13.
Procedures
The Forum shall adopt, and may, at any session, amend its own rules of procedure. The Forum
Standing Committee and ad hoc Working Groups shall apply, mutatis mutandis, the rules of procedure
adopted by the Forum.
14.
Agenda
The Secretariat, in consultation with and under the guidance of the President of the Forum, shall
prepare a Provisional Agenda for each session of the Forum, including a recommendation for the meeting
rapporteur. Any participant in the Forum may request the Secretariat to include specific items in the
Provisional Agenda prior to its distribution. The Provisional Agenda shall be communicated to all
participants in the Forum at least two months before the opening of the session. After the communication of
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the Provisional Agenda and before the adoption of the Agenda by the Forum, participants may propose
only items of an important and urgent nature.
15.
Budget and Expenses
15.1
The Forum Standing Committee shall prepare for consideration by each session of the Forum an
estimate of expenditure related to the Forum, the Forum Standing Committee, and ad hoc Working Groups
established by the Forum and a Secretariat, together with information concerning expenditures for the
period since the last Forum. This estimate, with such modifications as may be considered appropriate by
the Forum in the light of potential funding, shall subsequently be considered in the budget of the Forum.
15.2
Any types of expenses related to participation in the Forum, Forum Standing Committee, regional
meetings or ad hoc Working Groups are to be borne by participants unless otherwise agreed by the Forum.
Nonetheless, the Forum, through its secretariat, shall undertake efforts towards the obtaining of funding in
order to assure the participation of representatives of developing countries, countries with economies in
transition, and non-governmental organizations.
16.
Reports
The Forum shall consider and adopt a report at each session embodying the recommendations
adopted. A statement summarizing minority views will be included when appropriate. Reports will be
distributed to all participants in the Forum and, through appropriate channels, to the Commission on
Sustainable Development and to the governing bodies of the IOMC participating organizations.
17.
Languages
17.1
The working languages of the Forum shall be Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian and
Spanish.
17.2
The agenda and final report of sessions of the Forum shall be in Arabic, Chinese, English, French,
Russian and Spanish. All working documents shall include a section “Issues for consideration and action
required by the Forum” which will be translated into Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian and
Spanish. Simultaneous interpretation will be provided at sessions of the Forum.
17.3
The working language of the Forum Standing Committee is English. The Forum Standing
Committee will consider the need for other languages on a case by case basis.
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Intergovernmental Forum on Chemical Safety
Fifth Session - Forum V
25 - 29 September 2006
IFCS/Forum-V/02-TS
Annex 2
Strategic Approach to International Chemicals Management
Overarching Policy Strategy14
VII. Implementation and taking stock of progress
21.
Institutional arrangements to support implementation and taking stock of progress on the Strategic
Approach will include national coordination and, as appropriate, regional processes and, at the international
level, a periodic review process facilitated by a secretariat.
22.
Implementation of the Strategic Approach could begin with an enabling phase to build necessary
capacity, as appropriate, to develop, with relevant stakeholder participation, a national Strategic Approach
implementation plan, taking into consideration, as appropriate, existing elements such as legislation,
national profiles, action plans, stakeholder initiatives and gaps, priorities, needs and circumstances.
Strategic Approach regional implementation plans may be developed, as appropriate, in a similar fashion.
Subsequent implementation phases should focus on implementing specific action plans. In parallel,
intergovernmental organizations, international financial institutions and private actors are encouraged to
support these activities and to consider the development of their own action plans as appropriate.
Partnerships among stakeholders should be pursued in support of implementation.
23.
To sustain an integrated approach to managing chemicals, each Government should establish
arrangements for implementing the Strategic Approach on an inter-ministerial or inter-institutional basis so
that all concerned national departmental and stakeholder interests are represented and all relevant
substantive areas are addressed. To facilitate communication, nationally and internationally, each
Government should designate a Strategic Approach national focal point to act as an effective conduit for
communication on Strategic Approach matters, including invitations to participate in meetings and
information dissemination. The Strategic Approach national focal point should be a representative of the
country’s inter-ministerial or inter-institutional arrangements, where such arrangements exist.
24.
The International Conference on Chemicals Management (hereafter referred to as the Conference)
will undertake periodic reviews of the Strategic Approach. The functions of the Conference will be:
(a)
To receive reports from all relevant stakeholders on progress in implementation of the Strategic
Approach and to disseminate information as appropriate;
(b)
To evaluate the implementation of the Strategic Approach with a view to reviewing progress
against the 2020 target and taking strategic decisions, programming, prioritizing and updating the
approach as necessary;
(c)
To provide guidance on implementation of the Strategic Approach to stakeholders;
(d)
To report on progress in implementation of the Strategic Approach to stakeholders;
(e)
To promote implementation of existing international instruments and programmes;
(f)
To promote coherence among chemicals management instruments at the international level;
(g)
To promote the strengthening of national chemicals management capacities;
14
Report of the International Conference on Chemicals Management on the work of its first session
(SAICM/ICCM.1/7), Annex II, Overarching Policy Strategy http://www.chem.unep.ch/saicm/iccm_sec.htm
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Intergovernmental Forum on Chemical Safety
Fifth Session - Forum V
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IFCS/Forum-V/02-TS
(h)
To work to ensure that the necessary financial and technical resources are available for
implementation;
(i)
To evaluate the performance of the financing of the Strategic Approach;
(j)
To focus attention and call for appropriate action on emerging policy issues as they arise and to
forge consensus on priorities for cooperative action;
(k)
To promote information exchange and scientific and technical cooperation;
(l)
To provide a high-level international forum for multi-stakeholder and multi-sectoral discussion
and exchange of experience on chemicals management issues with the participation of nongovernmental organizations in accordance with applicable rules of procedure;
(m) To promote the participation of all stakeholders in the implementation of the Strategic
Approach.
25.
Where appropriate, sessions of the Conference should be held back-to-back with meetings of the
governing bodies of relevant intergovernmental organizations in order to enhance synergies and costeffectiveness and to promote the Strategic Approach’s multi-sectoral nature. Sessions of the Conference
should be held in 2009, 2012, 2015 and 2020, unless otherwise decided by the Conference.
26.
It will be essential that implementation of the Strategic Approach continue effectively between
meetings of the Conference, building on its open, multi-stakeholder and multi-sectoral methods. There will
be a number of elements for achieving this:
(a)
Regional meetings have played a significant role in the development of the Strategic Approach
and it will be important to build on this commitment and expertise, taking into account the needs of
developing countries, in particular the least developed among them, countries with economies in
transition and developed countries. Regional meetings will facilitate input on Strategic Approach
activities, preparation for future meetings of the Conference and exchange of regional expertise and
exchange of information. As with the Conference itself, such meetings could be held back-to-back with
relevant regional or global intergovernmental organization meetings, subject to extrabudgetary
funding;
(b)
The functions of the regional meetings will include:
(i)
To review progress on implementation of the Strategic Approach within the regions;
(ii)
To provide guidance on implementation to all stakeholders at a regional level;
(iii)
To enable technical and strategic discussions and exchange of information to take place;
(c)
The implementation of the Strategic Approach will depend in significant part on the activities of
relevant intergovernmental organizations. In order to help ensure that these activities are coordinated
properly, IOMC should continue to perform a coordinating function for intergovernmental
organization activities and work programmes.
27.
The Conference should have a bureau with functions in accordance with the rules of procedure.
28.
The functions to be performed by the secretariat will be:
(a)
To facilitate meetings and intersessional work of the Conference, as well as regional meetings,
with maximum multi-stakeholder participation, and to disseminate the reports and recommendations of
the Conference;
(b)
To report to the Conference on implementation of the Strategic Approach by all participants;
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Intergovernmental Forum on Chemical Safety
Fifth Session - Forum V
25 - 29 September 2006
IFCS/Forum-V/02-TS
(c)
To promote the establishment and maintenance of a network of Strategic Approach stakeholders
at the national, regional and, in the case of intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations,
international levels;
(d)
To facilitate the development and dissemination of guidance materials to support
implementation of the Strategic Approach by stakeholders;
(e)
To provide guidance to stakeholders in the initiation of project proposals;
(f)
To provide information clearing-house services such as provision of advice to countries on
implementation of the Strategic Approach, referral of requests for information to relevant sources, and
facilitation of access to information and expertise in support of specific national actions;
(g)
To ensure that recommendations from the Conference are conveyed to relevant global and
regional organizations and institutions;
(h)
To promote the exchange of relevant scientific and technical information;
(i)
To establish and maintain a working relationship with participating organizations of IOMC in
order to draw upon their sectoral expertise.
29.
The Executive Director of UNEP will be requested to establish the Strategic Approach secretariat.
UNEP and the World Health Organization (WHO) will take lead roles in the secretariat in their respective
areas of expertise in relation to the Strategic Approach, with UNEP assuming overall administrative
responsibility. The Strategic Approach secretariat will be co-located with the UNEP chemicals and waste
cluster in Geneva, and take full advantage of existing synergies. In order to reflect the multi-sectoral nature
of the Strategic Approach, the secretariat will work in coordination and/or cooperation with the
participating organizations of IOMC and UNDP, as well as with other intergovernmental organizations, as
appropriate. The secretariat will report to the Conference.
29