October 2014: The International Tropical Timber Organization (ITTO) released, on the occasion of the 50th session of its governing body, an edition of the Tropical Forest Update dedicated to interviews on the achievements of the International Tropical Timber Council (ITTC) and its role in the future.

Interviewees note how the Council navigated through a number difficulties such as the Asian financial crisis and massive peat swamp forest fires, and how it continues to progress through complex emerging issues such as climate change and shifts in the global economy. Featured interviews also highlight other, specific challenges such as balancing differing priorities and points of views between producers and consumers, managing a limited budget and small Secretariat, coordinating issues across sectors, negotiating certification procedures and processes, and supporting a diverse membership.

With regard to the future of the ITTO, the Update notes the importance of forest conservation to climate change mitigation and adaptation. The interviewees also highlight the need to recognize and shift focus towards managing forests for multiple ecosystem services. Finally, the Update highlights the upcoming review of the International Arrangement on Forests with some contributors calling for a more active role for the ITTO. [Publication: Tropical Forest Update – Volume 23 No 3]