Background and objective
As the UN Biodiversity Conference 2026 approaches, the incoming Armenian Presidency of COP17, in cooperation with the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), is organizing a high-level briefing for Parties and stakeholders to provide an update on the substantive and logistical preparations for the Conference. Under the theme “Taking Action for Nature”, the incoming Presidency will present the key milestones, priorities and initiatives expected to shape COP17 and contribute to its outcomes, with a view to accelerating implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF) and advancing its 2030 mission and 2050 vision.
With Africa home to more than a quarter of the world’s biodiversity, and with Addis Ababa set to host UNFCCC COP32, the briefing will place particular emphasis on African perspectives and priorities. It will provide an opportunity for African partners to share their expectations for COP17 and contribute to shaping successful outcomes in Yerevan.
The briefing will provide updates on:
- Leaders for Nature Summit, including its objectives, format and expected outcomes;
- High-Level Segment, including its thematic focus and role in advancing political guidance for COP17 negotiations;
- Incoming Presidency's flagship initiatives, designed to mobilize governments, Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities, women, youth, business, finance, cities and regions, academia and civil society around implementation of the KMGBF;
- Thematic days, parallel events and other opportunities for stakeholder engagement;
- Logistical preparations, participation arrangements, visa procedures and other practical information for delegates.
The briefing will also provide an opportunity for Parties and stakeholders to exchange views with the incoming Presidency on expectations for COP17 and discuss what successful outcomes in Yerevan should look like.
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