Local communities, business and industry, citizens groups, and NGOs can all play an important role in promoting the implementation of an MEA and they often have expertise that will enhance the capacity of a State to meet its obligations (such as the ability to offer training or technical assistance). States that consult and otherwise involve these “stakeholders” in implementation efforts have access to a greater range of resources for promoting compliance.
The discussion of Guidelines 41(c)
, 41(i), 41(j), 41(k) and 44, examines in detail aspects of stakeholder and community involvement in implementing environmental laws, policies, programmes, and plans.
Women and youth must be involved in the decision making processes that affect the environment and natural resources; particularly because of the role of women as “managers” of these resources in their day-to-day activities. UNEP is committed to increasing the involvement of women in providing leadership in caring for the environment.
The discussion of Guideline 44(e), addresses in more detail measures to empower and involve women and youth.