The Conference of the Parties,
Recalling article 24, paragraph 2, of the Convention, Aware of decision 11/COP.8,
Having reviewed the report prepared by the secretariat contained in document ICCD/COP(9)/8,
Recognizing the need to improve the quality of services provided to Parties in order to enhance the implementation of the Convention in line with the provisions of the 10-year strategic plan and framework to enhance the implementation of the Convention (The Strategy).
Noting the increasing need to involve the scientific community in the implementation of The Strategy and of the activities related to the work programme of the Committee on Science and Technology (CST),
Noting the ongoing efforts made by the secretariat to update the roster of independent experts based on the nominations submitted by Parties,
1. Requests Parties, through consultation with their national focal points and, where applicable, with the science and technology correspondents, to update the details of the national experts already held on the database of the roster of independent experts, and to propose new candidates in order to achieve a better gender balance and representation of all relevant disciplines, and of all individuals with expertise in the field of desertification, land degradation and drought. This information should be submitted within six months after the conclusion of the current session of the Conference of the Parties, through regular diplomatic channels;
2. Also requests the secretariat to continue to maintain the roster of independent experts based on the nominations submitted by Parties;
