ADB Engages in Multi-Stakeholder Dialogue on Forests and Protected Areas Law and Science

On 27-29 April 2023 in Kathmandu, ADB convened the first-of-its-kind Regional Symposium on Forest and Protected Areas Legislation and Jurisprudence: Bridging Law and Science which brought together judges, lawyers, policy makers, legislators, enforcement agencies, civil society, scientists and forestry experts to discuss forest protection and sustainable forest management based on whole-of-the-planet approach and underpinned by science and technology. The symposium was supported by the Office of the General Counsel’s Law and Policy Reform Program. 

Nepal Resident Mission's (NRM) Arnaud Cauchois noted that forests and protected areas are vital for responding to the triple planetary crisis of pollution, climate change and biodiversity and there is continuing need for multi-stakeholder collaboration such as this Symposium. NRM Portfolio Unit Head Arnaud Heckmann welcomed the participants and highlighted ADB’s partnership with Nepal which has environmental sustainability and resilience at its core. Principal Counsel Christina Pak spoke about a new Model Forest Act Initiative to address the 21st century’s needs taking a holistic and systemic approach which can be used as a guide for national and local legislation around the globe.