The event explored public interest in the high-level representative proposal, which was discussed during the preparatory process for the UN Conference on Sustainable Development (UNCSD, or Rio+20). The side event featured speakers Marcos Orellana, Centre for International Environmental Law (CIEL); Kehkashan Basu, Global Coordinator for the Children & Youth Major Group, UNEP; and Alexander Juras, Head of Major Group and Stakeholder Branch, UNEP.

Catherine Pearce, WFC, reported that participants expressed a general interest in the idea, and that many participants looked forward to the forthcoming report from the UN Secretary-General on the issue of future generations. The Secretary-General’s report is mandated in the Rio+20 outcome document, which states: “We will also consider the need for promoting intergenerational solidarity for the achievement of sustainable development, taking into account the needs of future generations, including by inviting the Secretary General to present a report on this issue” (Paragraph 86). Pearce noted that WFC urges the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA), which leads the report’s drafting, to undertake a full and open consultation on the topic.

In a recent article published by the Stakeholder Forum, WFC said an independent High-Level Representative for Future Generations could work with the High-level Political Forum (HLPF) to address the dangers of short-term thinking in policy making, undertake agenda setting and leadership, develop proposals to protect future generations, and facilitate Major Groups’ participation, among other functions.

In an interview after the side event at UNEP GC, WFC noted that besides its proposal, UNEP has shown interest in an internal ombudsperson with a mandate to help support the work and programme of UNEP, possibly in relation to providing an effective mechanism for improving public participation – also mandated in paragraph 88(h) of the Rio+20 outcome document. [Side Event Flyer] [World Future Council Blog Post] [World Future Council Website] [Follow-up Framework by UN System to Rio+20] [IISD RS Sources] [An institutional antidote to the culture of short termism in policy-making]