10 October 2014
WMO Releases GCOS Programme Review
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The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has announced a Global Climate Observing System (GCOS) programme review, which concludes that the GCOS programme is indispensable and should be continued.

The report summarizes the main outcomes of the review, which was carried out by a Review Board, and recommends redrafting the GCOS Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to reflect recent developments and commitments by GCOS sponsors, such as the Global Framework for Climate Services (GFCS).

GCOS WCRP logosOctober 2014: The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has announced a Global Climate Observing System (GCOS) programme review, which concludes that the GCOS programme is indispensable and should be continued. The report summarizes the main outcomes of the review, which was carried out by a Review Board, and recommends redrafting the GCOS Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to reflect recent developments and commitments by GCOS sponsors, such as the Global Framework for Climate Services (GFCS).

The ‘GCOS Programme Review Synthesis Report’ provides a rationale for the review, including historical background and structure. It then outlines the review process, including self-assessment, survey of the broader GCOS community and personal interviews. The report also discusses the Review Board’s consideration of evidence and findings, including GCOS MoU relevance, programme achievements, challenges and opportunities facing GCOS, and vision and future plans.

The Review Board prepared 18 recommendations based on its findings, including that GCOS and its sponsors should develop a more succinct, cohesive mission statement. Regarding balance and relevance of the MoU, the report recommends reviewing all elements of the existing MoU and updating them to reflect the current environment in which GCOS operates.

On GCOS programme achievements, the report recommends: increasing GCOS visibility through, for example, a more attractive website, flyers and social media; improving terrestrial climate observa­tions, such as through the convening of a high-level strategic workshop; and developing a more strategic approach to capacity building.

On the relationship of GCOS to international and national organizations, the report recommends, inter alia: improving cooperation between the Global Environment Outlook (GEO) and GCOS to build a robust and sustained observing system; developing a joint strategic plan to define the role of GCOS in the GFCS; and strengthening ties to national govern­ments by promoting national and regional coordinators.

On programme functions, mechanisms and governance, the report includes recommendations on: reviewing GCOS support and assessing its adequacy; and ensuring representation from newly-formed bodies.

On future visions, the Review Board recommends, inter alia: developing a communication strategy to clarify the purpose of GCOS, guide priority setting and communicate to stakeholders the objectives and intended benefits; and recognizing GCOS as a permanent element of the GFCS.

The report also recommends establising a GCOS Engagement Committee to advise on strategy and ensure that GCOS can meet expectations, as laid out in a revised MoU.

The GCOS Review formally began with the First Meeting of the Review Board in March 2013 and was completed in April 2014. The Review Board was appointed by the programme’s sponsors: the International Council for Science (ICSU); WMO; the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO); and the UN Environment Programme (UNEP).

GCOS is a network of observing systems and a programme of activities that aims to support and improve the network. It is designed to meet changing national and international requirements for climate observations. GCOS was established in 1992 as an outcome of the Second World Climate Conference. [Publication: GCOS Programme Review Synthesis Report] [GCOS Webpage] [GCOS Brochure]

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