These are entities and individuals that are not classified as Parties or Observer States to one of the Conventions, but are actively involved in their processes. Their contributions are vital to shaping policy and advancing implementation efforts.
Non-Party stakeholders typically engage through observer organizations, and include the following:
United Nations system and its specialized agencies
These organizations may be represented as observers.
Intergovernmental organizations (IGOs)
Admitted by the COP: IGOs may participate as observers once formally admitted by the Conference of the Parties (COP). They must undergo an application process to obtain observer status, which enables them to register delegates and contribute to sessions.
Non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
Admitted by the COP: NGOs qualified in matters covered by the Convention, and that have informed the secretariat of their wish to participate as observers.
The process for NGOs to obtain observer status is detailed on the website of each convention:
Other non-Party stakeholders: Those without observer status can still engage in the process through various channels. These include participation in regional workshops, contributions to technical papers and involvement in public participation initiatives that broaden the scope of climate dialogue. This group includes youth, civil society organizations, landowners and land managers, farmers and pastoralists, the media and the private sector.
