The Civil Society Unit is part of the Secretariat of the Governing Bodies at UNEP and is committed to partnering with Major Groups and Stakeholders in order to ensure transparency and inclusiveness in the intergovernmental decision-making process at UNEP. The Unit’s mandate is to engage with accredited civil society organizations such as not-for-profit organizations, networks and associations, that contribute valuable expertise and knowledge, play key advocacy functions and support the implementation of UNEP’s mandate. They also channel the voices of those most likely to be directly affected by environmental problems and related policies, and call needed attention to emerging issues as they reach out to their respective communities and the public at large.
The collaboration between UNEP and civil society continues to grow significantly. Currently, over 1000 not-for profit organizations have formal consultative and observer status with UNEP. Organizations who want to seize this opportunity and make their voice heard at the UNEP can get directly involved by applying for Accreditation to the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA) of UNEP, which grants them observer status to UNEA.
For any further information which you are unable to find on our website, please contact the Civil Society Unit:
- Mr. Ulf Bjornholm, Officer in Charge, Chief, Civil Society Unit
- Ms. Laetitia Zobel, focal point for enquiries from Latin America, and Europe
- Mr. David Ombisi, focal point for enquiries from North America and West Asia
- Mr. Isaiah Otieno, focal point for all enquires on Africa and Asia Pacific.
