Rationale

 

One of the mechanisms to exchange information on biodiversity to implement effectively the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) is the Clearing House Mechanism (CHM). Knowledge management (KM) tools such as the CHM focal points network and the CHM website will be used in updating the country’s national biodiversity strategies and action plans (NBSAP) and in preparing national reports to be submitted to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). The CHM is also a key KM tool in mainstreaming and monitoring progress of the NBSAPs. In the ASEAN region, however, very few countries have established national CHMs and national CHM Websites. ACB is to assist the AMCs in establishing their CHM national focal points and CHM websites.

In September 2000, the ASEAN Regional Center for Biodiversity (ARCBC) Project, predecessor of ACB, held a National Workshop on a Mechanism of Biodiversity Sharing within Vietnam. Through the workshop, ARCBC laid down the foundation for the establishment of the national biodiversity information network in Vietnam with the participation of government agencies, research institutions, and non-governmental organizations related to biodiversity conservation. However, at present, there is no active partnership between ACB and the Vietnam biodiversity network.

The first Sub-regional Workshop on Mechanism for Biodiversity Data Sharing and Harmonization was held in Hanoi, Vietnam. It was attended by 15 participants from Malaysia (2), the Philippines (2) and Vietnam (11) from different government institutions and international non-government organizations. The resource speakers were Ms. Ma. Consuelo Garcia, Director, Biodiversity Information Management, ACB and Mr. Olivier de Munck, Programme Officer of the Clearing-House Mechanism from the Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity (SCBD).

The Sub-regional Workshop on Mechanism for Biodiversity Data Sharing and Harmonization in scheduled on 9-11 June 2008 in Luang Prabang is a follow-up step to re-engage AMCs in the area of biodiversity information management.

This workshop will build mechanism to exchange information, experiences and learnings that are necessary to assist policy makers and stakeholders to meet obligations under the Convention. The workshop will be a venue for knowledge sharing to establish CHMs and biodiversity information networks which was already proposed by the AMCs. It will review the network and strengthen the partnership toward synergism in approaching biodiversity problems at the regional level. The establishment and strengthening of the networks are to be replicated in other AMCs.