Practice - International Renewable Energies Conference 2004

Introduction

Multi-Stakeholder Dialogues (MSD) have become a significant component of the sustainable development process. The idea and format derive from deliberations at the UN Commission on Sustainable Development.

MSD enable direct interaction between governments and other stakeholders on specific topics, and have been increasingly accepted as part of the official inter-governmental process rather than as an ancillary event taking place on the margins of negotiations.

The dialogues provide opportunities for Major Groups to share their concerns, experiences and proposals in specific areas and to discuss them with governments. Such exchanges help to promote meaningful participation among all stakeholder groups and governments in the intergovernmental decision-making process.

Based on democratic principles of transparency and participation, the aim of a MSD is to build consensus on topics among stakeholders and to develop partnerships and strengthened networks among them. For more information about multi-stakeholder dialogues please visit: Introduction to Multi-Stakeholder Processes

Multi-Stakeholder Dialogues at the Conference

At the International Conference for Renewable Energy, the multi-stakeholder dialogue is the principal means of integrated stakeholder participation. It aims to set the stage for a transparent and participatory conference by enabling an interactive dialogue between civil society, business and governments.

The discussions during preparation and implementation of the MSD facilitate a wider understanding of renewable energy issues and help build consensus among major stakeholder groups. The results will have an impact on the further decision-making process of the conference.

There will be two MSD sessions. The MSD International Advisory Group will propose the themes of the sessions. The Agenda of the MSD will be published on this website as soon as it is available.