SPREP and SOPAC: implementing the RIF, a case for integration-opportunities and issues

Abstract

The purpose of this briefing paper is to set out the SPREP Secretariats perspective and proposals for integration with SOPAC components based on the directives given by the SPREP Governing Council at the 19th meeting (SM19) in 2008. SM19 mandated the Director to work with the CEOs of SOPAC and SPC to arrive at a workable solution for the implementation of the Forum Leaders' decisions on the merging of SOPAC into SPREP and SPC at their meetings in 2007 and 2008. In doing so, SPREP Members considered "the opportunities to strengthen the region's environment organisation that would be provided by rationalization of SOPAC functions, in whole or part, into SPREP".