Purpose: To provide guidance on drafting CITES proposals and engaging in advocacy or lobbying to influence outcomes affecting agarwood and other high-value plant products.
A. Proposal Drafting
- Identify Objective:
- Determine the goal: species listing, amendment, annotation change, or trade regulation modification
- Scientific and Technical Justification:
- Include conservation status, population trends, trade data, and ecological impacts
- Provide Non-Detriment Findings (NDFs) where applicable
- Compliance and Legal Assessment:
- Ensure alignment with CITES criteria, national laws, and international obligations
- Structured Format:
- Follow CITES guidelines for proposal submission, including supporting data and references
- Include impact assessments and potential benefits for conservation and sustainable trade
B. Lobbying and Advocacy
- Stakeholder Engagement:
- Consult with Management Authorities, Scientific Authorities, local communities, NGOs, and industry associations
- Information Dissemination:
- Present evidence-based arguments supporting the proposal
- Share scientific, economic, and sustainability benefits with decision-makers
- Strategic Alliances:
- Collaborate with other Parties or organizations to strengthen support for proposals
- Monitoring and Feedback:
- Track proposal progress, gather feedback, and adjust advocacy strategies accordingly
C. Practical Recommendations
- Prepare comprehensive, well-supported proposals using accurate data and clear arguments
- Ensure transparency and ethical conduct in lobbying activities
- Engage in pre-CoP consultations and technical committees for advice and support
- Document all advocacy efforts for accountability and future reference
Learning Outputs
- Understanding of the CITES proposal drafting process
- Ability to prepare scientifically and legally sound proposals
- Knowledge of lobbying and advocacy strategies within ethical and regulatory frameworks
- Skills to engage stakeholders, monitor progress, and support decision-making at CoP meetings