By Ana Di Pangracio (FARN, Argentina)
In late October 2025, Panama City will be the stage for two important meetings under one of the sister conventions of the UNCCD, the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD): the 27th meeting of SBSTTA (Subsidiary Body on Scientific, Technical, and Technological Advice) and the first meeting of SB8J-1 (Subsidiary Body on Article 8.j and Other Provisions related to Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities).
For those concerned with land, drylands, and local communities, these meetings carry enormous potential. SBSTTA27 is charged with reviewing science and technical advice: how ecosystems are assessed, how land degradation and restoration are measured, and how indicators for biodiversity and climate are developed.
Within the framework of the Global Biodiversity Framework and its mid-term review, critical documents (see below) before Parties include proposals for monitoring frameworks, guidance on ecosystem restoration, and assessments of how biodiversity is being lost in dry and semi-arid lands.
One of the most notable achievements of CBD COP16 in Cali in 2024 was the approval of a new subsidiary body, SB8J, or the Subsidiary Body on Article 8(j) and Other Provisions of the Convention on Biological Diversity Related to Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities. This new permanent body of the CBD builds on decades of work within the CBD. The decision strengthens Indigenous Peoples and local communities (IPLC) as key actors in conservation and grants them greater influence in negotiations.
Further details on the structure and operation of SB8J are expected at COP17. In this regard, its first meeting will consider the implementation of the new Programme of Work through 2030, particularly Tasks 1.1 and 1.2. This covers how Indigenous Peoples and local communities’ traditional knowledge, innovations, and practices are to be respected, preserved, and effectively integrated into biodiversity conservation and land use. Also under review are their roles in decision-making, benefit-sharing, and ensuring land rights.
For Drynet, the key demand is clear: decisions and documents should not treat drylands and land issues as peripheral. We must insist that land degradation, restoration, tenure, and non-market values of land are central to scientific assessments, monitoring, and the Programme of Work on Article 8(j).
These Panama meetings are a renewed opportunity to continue striving for land rights, equity, and justice to shape the CBD’s future as core components in global biodiversity governance.
Find SBSTTA27 documents at: https://www.cbd.int/meetings/SBSTTA-27 and SB8J at: https://www.cbd.int/meetings/SB8J-01