New Thematic Working Group Established to Focus on Threatened Species

The 5th CTI-CFF Ministerial Meeting (MM5) approved the establishment of a new thematic technical working group (TWG), bringing to five the total number of active TWGs under the CTI-CFF, each corresponding to one of the five thematic goals of the CTI-CFF Regional Plan of Action (RPOA).

Called the Threatened Species Working Group (TSWG), the new TWG will be primarily responsible for facilitating progress on Goal 5 of the RPOA (Threatened species status improving). Specifically, it is tasked to perform the following functions: (1) Track and report on progress on the implementation of the regional priority actions especially pertaining to the RPOA goal and targets on Threatened Species; (2) Guide and review progress on other actions in the RPOA as requested by the CTI-CFF Committee of Senior Officials; (3) Collaborate with the CT Atlas (external link) in drawing relevant map data layers and non-spatial attribute data; (4) Provide inputs and review of the regional State of the Coral Triangle Report, especially the chapters relating to the RPOA goal and targets on Threatened Species; (5) Prepare and review the TSWG inputs to the CTI-CFF Annual Progress Report; (6) Assist in the organization and conduct of regional exchanges and workshop as public consultations; and (7) Review and make inputs on funding proposals, reports and other related CTI-CFF activities.

The TSWG will be composed of at least two representatives from each of the six Coral Triangle Countries designated by their respective National Coordination Committees, and a representative each from the Regional Secretariat and the CTI-CFF Partners. An advisory group with no decision-making authority will be created to provide guidance to the TSWG. The group will include technical experts on the different species of threatened marine organisms.

Malaysia, through the Sabah Fisheries Department, will serve as TSWG Chair with a term of two years.