28 - 31 March: Twenty-first meeting of the AC, Hybrid

With its hybrid twenty-first meeting, the Adaptation Committee (AC), elected its new Co-Chairs, Mariam Allam from Egypt and Shella Biallas from the USA.

Key discussions during the meeting included conversations around the technical work of the joint AC-LEG-SCF working group on methodologies for reviewing the adequacy and effectiveness of adaptation and support provided for adaptation, with a progress report from the joint working group outlining the group’s consideration of the groundwork, including the overall framing of adaptation, the sources of information and indicative criteria to review the adequacy and effectiveness. The AC also discussed its synthesis report for technical assessment component of the first global stocktake, which was subsequently published on 12 May.

In the context of promoting overarching coherence, the AC strengthened its advice to, and engagement with, partners of the Nairobi work programme with a call to better align the NWP’s thematic work areas to the work of the AC and other constituted bodies, and the potential creation of communities of practice within the NWP partners around core technical topics on adaptation, such as monitoring and evaluation, private sector engagement in adaptation, adaptation technologies, and others. Furthermore, the AC agreed on the theme for the first annual dialogue with adaptation-related constituted bodies, which will centre round support for adaptation. The Dialogue will seek stronger and pragmatic coordination between the constituted bodies in support of adaptation and the first Dialogue is scheduled for June 2022.

The AC also reflected on how to enhance its strategy in the area of awareness-raising, outreach and sharing of information. One activity will be short, live streamed interviews that will inform a broad audience of not only the work of the AC, but also broader emerging topics related to adapting to a changing climate.

The AC welcomed the increasingly active engagement of observers at the meeting and their continued inputs on technical products. The participation of other bodies was greatly appreciated, especially of the LEG in providing active reflections throughout the many items on the agenda.

16 - 19 March: Nineteenth meeting of the AC

7 - 10 September: Twentiest meeting of the AC

24 - 27 March: Seventeenth meeting of the AC

24 - 26 August: AC stocktake

9 - 12 November: Eighteenth meeting of the AC

9 - 12 September: Sixteenth meeting of the AC, Bonn, Germany

 

At its 16^th meeting, the Adaptation Committee (AC) welcomed representatives of the Facilitative Working Group of the Local Communities and Indigenous Peoples Platform, the LEG and the PCCB, which demonstrated enhanced collaboration with other constituted bodies under the Convention. The AC further agreed on two topics for a meeting on gender and adaptation which will be held in 2020 with the close collaboration of the PCCB.

In addressing mandates from CMA 1, the AC embarked on its considerations on a draft supplementary guidance for voluntary use by Parties in communicating adaptation information, and how to engage IPCC working group II as mandated.

Furthermore, the topic of “How developing countries are addressing hazards, focusing on relevant lessons learned and good practices” was agreed upon for the AC’s first mandated synthesis report in the context of recognizing adaptation efforts of developing country Parties.

The AC further approved a topic for the 2020 TEP-A: “Education and training, public participation and youth to enhance adaptation action” also reflecting on the outcomes of the TEM-A 2016 to 2019.

With regard to technical support and guidance on adaptation action, the AC gave further guidance to the secretariat on an information paper on linkages between mitigation and adaptation, as well as for a paper looking at data, taking into account short- medium- and long-term perspectives and linkages of data needs to various stages in the adaptation process.

With regard to technical support and guidance on means of implementation, the AC agreed on its 2019 input to the SCF’s draft guidance to the operating entities of the Financial Mechanism of the Convention. In addition, the AC will consult with the LEG, PCCB and SCF on follow-up activities on its ongoing work on sustained long-term in-country capacity building to access adaptation funding.

For the 2020 Adaptation Forum, the AC agreed on the topics of Communicating M&E results; and Sharing existing knowledge and tools on measuring progress of adaptation and resilience actions, also addressing data.

Lastly, AC finalized a report on adaptation under the UNFCCC, which will be officially launched at COP 25 in a celebratory event entitled “25 Years of Adaptation under the UNFCCC”.

19 - 21 March: Fifteenth meeting of the AC, Bonn, Germany
 

At its 15^th meeting the AC welcomed four new members and elected its  new Co-Chair, Marianne Karlsen from Norway. 

In terms of promoting overarching coherence, the AC agreed on advice to the NWP, including the theme of “Oceans” for the 13^th Focal Point Forum in 2019 and “The link between climate change adaptation and biodiversity” for the 14^th FPF in 2020. The AC nominated an additional gender focal point and requested both to work with the secretariat to develop a plan to enhance consideration of gender in adaptation action.

The AC agreed on the approach to the 2019 TEP-A, including six thematic clusters to serve as an umbrella to organize the technical expert meeting over two days. Furthermore, it shortened the list of potential themes for the 2020 TEP-A:

• 1.5 degrees;
• Education, public participation and youth; and a
• Summary of the 2016 to 2019 TEPs.

With regard to technical support and guidance on adaptation action, the AC’s NAP Task Force will refine its workplan, involving members of other constituted bodies. The AC agreed on key themes for an event on M&E, which it agreed to shift to the first half of 2020. It also agreed to develop a concept note for a technical paper addressing short-medium and long-term adaptation, data, financial flows and any other relevant topics. In addition, a draft information paper on linkages between mitigation and adaptation will be prepared for consideration at AC 16.

With regard to technical support and guidance on means of implementation, a user-friendly version of the workshop report on engagement with the private sector was adopted [link] and the AC agreed to use its outcomes to inform the 2019 Adaptation Forum. The AC also agreed on developing an information paper on Parties’ capacity gaps in accessing adaptation funding and on their successes and challenges in building in-country capacity.

In the context of awareness-raising, outreach and sharing of information, the AC is revising its communication strategy, including the mission, objective and target audience, in order to prepare a detailed communications plan for consideration at AC16.

24 - 26 October: Fourteenth meeting of the AC, Bonn, Germany

At its fourteenth meeting the Adaptation Committee (AC) agreed on its flexible 2019-2021 workplan, including gender considerations, long-term adaptation planning (incl. ongoing work on M&E of adaptation), and further considerations on how Parties and relevant entities working on national adaptation goals/indicators could strengthen linkages with the SDGs and the Sendai Framework. The workplan is annexed to the AC’s report to COP24.

The AC further considered the draft technical paper on the 2018 TEP-A, also including all reports of the 2018 regional TEM-As (the finalized 2018 technical paper is available here). The AC further requested its TEP-A working group to start working on the 2019 TEP-A under the theme “Adaptation planning for vulnerable groups, communities and ecosystem”.

With regard to technical support and guidance to the Parties on adaptation action, the AC requested the secretariat to issue the a revised technical paper on long-term adaptation planning in a user-friendly format [link]. With regard technical support and guidance on the means of implementation, the AC agreed to produce the second issue of the Adaptation Finance Bulletin soon after COP 23, and it requested its working group on private sector engagement to work inter-sessionally on a concept note further defining a workshop to be conducted in 2018.

The AC also requested its NAP task force to develop intersessionally a draft 2019-2021 workplan for consideration at AC15. In addition, it agreed to hold its 2019 Forum in conjunction with the South Korea adaptation week in April 2019.

27 February - 2 March: Thirteenth meeting of the AC, Bonn, Germany

At its thirteenth meeting the AC elected a new Co-Chair, Pilar Bueno (Argentina) and re-elected Don Lemmen (Canada).

The AC agreed on the way forward on important work areas, such as private sector engagement, national adaptation goals/indicators and how they relate to indicators/goals for sustainable development and disaster risk reduction (DRR) (and the organization of related workshops), on matters relating to GCF readiness (and a related workshop in the margins of the upcoming NAP Expo 2018 in April), in line with the AC’s role as provider of high-level coherence towards the implementation of adaptation action and support.

As an incubator of new and innovative themes in support of adaptation and as a convener of relevant stakeholders, the AC made an important step by finalizing the approach for the 2018 Technical Examination Meeting on Adaptation (TEM-A) in response to the decision at COP 23. The AC accepted offers from volunteer organizations to lead individual sessions and much welcomed several offers from organizations to host regional TEM-As, which demonstrates stakeholders’ engagement in the process.

With regard to its next workplan, the AC initiated discussions on focus areas, strategic objectives, target audiences and examples of activities, welcoming the inputs from, and close collaboration with, the observers present at the meeting.

6-17 November: COP 23, Bonn, Germany

The SBSTA and the SBI welcomed the report of the Adaptation Committee and expressed their appreciation for the technical work undertaken. They noted that the AC has completed its work on the recommendations to the CMA in response to decision 1/CP.21,paragraph 42 (regarding a review of adaptation-related institutional arrangements under the UNFCCC; and methodologies to assess adaptation needs), as well as its work, together with the LEG, on the recommendations relating to decision 1/CP.21, paragraphs 41 and 45 (regarding the recognition of adaptation efforts by developing countries; steps to facilitate adaptation support; and reviewing the adequacy and effectiveness of adaptation and support). The SBSTA and the SBI agreed to continue their consideration at their 48th sessions in April–May 2018 (see document FCCC/SB/2017/L.6).

The SBI also welcomed the progress made by the AC and the LEG in their engagement with the GCF on ways to enhance the process to access support for the formulation and implementation of NAPs. It welcomed the AC’s information paper on the experience of countries in accessing the GCF Readiness Programme for adaptation, including for the process to formulate and implement NAPs,and noted that the information paper will inform the workshop planned to take place during NAP Expo 2018.

The SBI invited the AC and the LEG, following the NAP Expo 2018, to consider ways to assist with the implementation of NAPs in their future work programmes (see document FCCC/SBI/2017/L.35).
 

9-22 September: Twelfth meeting of the Adaptation Committee, Bonn, Germany

At its twelfth meeting the AC agreed, with approval by the LEG, on recommendations on the mandates from the Paris Agreement to be included in its report to COP 23.

It requested its TEP-A working group to initiate work on the 2018 TEMs, on the topic of adaptation planning for vulnerable groups, communities and ecosystems, considering feedback received so far and the outcome of the assessment of the TEP-A, which will take place during COP23.

With regard to technical support and guidance to the Parties on adaptation action, the AC, with support from NWP partner organizations, will make available an overview of existing partnerships providing such support, inviting other existing platforms to contact the secretariat to be included in the existing list. A draft technical paper on long-term adaptation planning (101 kB) was welcomed by the AC and a finalized version will be made available in early 2018.

With regard to technical support and guidance on the means of implementation, the AC agreed to produce the second issue of the Adaptation Finance Bulletin (686 kB) soon after COP 23, and it requested its working group on private sector engagement to work inter-sessionally on a concept note further defining a workshop to be conducted in 2018.

On the topic of accessing funding from the Green Climate Fund for NAPs, the AC agreed to conduct a workshop on this matter, planned for 2018, conjunction with the 2018 NAP Expo.

16-17 May: Technical Expert Meetings on Adaptation at SB 46

As part of the Technical Examination Process on Adaptation (TEP-A), a technical expert meeting on adaptation (TEM-A 2017) was organized under the topic: Integrating climate change adaptation with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Sendai Framework on Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR). The TEM-A 2017 provided a platform to aligning sustainable development and reduction of disaster risk with adaptation efforts under the UNFCCC. In this 2-day meeting, participants exchanged views on:  1) Ways to align the SDGs and DRR efforts with adaptation, including through joint decision-making and joint tools and metrics; 2) Integrated approaches that contribute to such alignment; and 3) How the national adaptation plans (NAPs) could be used as a framework for creating and strengthening linkages between the three processes. The TEP-A was established at COP 21 as part of the enhanced action prior to 2020 in the decision adopting the Paris Agreement.

7 - 10 March: Eleventh meeting of the Adaptation Committee, Bonn, Germany

At its eleventh meeting the Adaptation Committee (AC) elected a new Co-Chair, Mr. Clifford Mahlung (Jamaica) and re-elected Mr. Don Lemmen (Canada). It made good progress on the mandates from the Paris Agreement. This includes recommendations on the review of the work of adaptation‐related institutional arrangements under the Convention, which it plans to finalize at AC12 for forwarding to the CMA for consideration and adoption. With regard to methodologies for assessing adaptation needs the AC agreed to organize a small expert meeting at SB46, and concerning the three joint mandates of the AC and the Least Developing Countries Expert Group (LEG), both groups will present progress to delegates during a special event also taking place during SB46. The groups chose a 3-hour format to allow for sufficient time to receive detailed feedback from delegates on their work so far.

The AC further endorsed the draft agenda for the 2017 TEM-As (16 and 17 May) under the topic “Integrating climate change adaptation with the Sustainable Development Goals and the Sendai Framework on Disaster Risk Reduction’’ and the proposed topics for the TEP-A in 2018 and 2019.

The GCF initiated expert consultations with the AC on the readiness programme for NAPs and consultations are ongoing on possible collaboration on, and dates for, a workshop to advance the understanding and overcome challenges relating to the establishment of National Implementing Entities and accessing the readiness programme for adaptation of the GCF. A draft information paper on experiences of countries in accessing he readiness programme for adaptation of the GCF will be made available for the next meeting of the AC.

7 - 19 November: COP 22, Marrakech, Morocco

COP 22 welcomed the report of the Adaptation Committee (AC) and the progress made by the AC in the implementation of its revised workplan for the period 2016-2018, including progress reported on enhancing overall coherence in relation to adaptation and the relevant mandates contained in decision 1/CP.21, and on its efforts to enhance its performance with the overall aim of enhancing adaptation action.

It requested the AC to make use of additional modalities for responding to the relevant mandates contained in decision 1/CP.21, including engaging with the Nairobi work programme and its partner organizations, research institutions and other institutional arrangements outside the Convention. In addition, the COP requested the AC to accelerate preparations for the 2017 technical expert meetings on adaptation, including the selection of topics, ensuring that the technical examination process on adaptation meets its objective of identifying concrete opportunities for strengthening resilience, reducing vulnerabilities and increasing the understanding and implementation of adaptation action, including through technical papers.

It concluded the review of the progress and performance of the Adaptation Committee on the basis of the information contained in its annual reports in the period 2012−2016 and requested the Adaptation Committee, as an outcome of this review, to continue with the implementation of its revised workplan, in particular by giving priority to the activities in support of the Paris Agreement, and to seek further ways to enhance its progress, effectiveness and performance.

13-16 September: Tenth meeting of the Adaptation Committee, Bonn, Germany

At its tenth meeting the Adaptation Committee (AC) agreed on the next steps and new arrangements to work on the implementation of the joint AC and LEG mandates stemming from decision 1/CP.21. To this effect, and AC/LEG joint working group was established to work intersessionally and on the margins of COP 22, inviting the participation of the SCF. Interim results of the work will be presented at a COP 22 side event.

The AC has also made good progress on planning for 2017 review of the work of other adaptation-related institutional arrangements under the Convention, and on assessing adaptation needs. It agreed to invite submissions from Parties and other stakeholders to inform its further work.

With regard to technical support and guidance to the Parties on adaptation action, the AC set up enhanced collaboration with NWP partners (through the secretariat) on M&E, and with NWP support and CTCN on collaboration with regional centres. Also the revised ToR and flexible workplan of the NAP Task Force were agreed upon.

The AC agreed on an expanded TEP-A working group involving other bodies and stakeholders and agreed to forward a draft list of topics for the 2017-2020 TEMs for the consideration of the working.

Due to financial constrains the 10th meeting of the AC could not be webcast. The AC highlighted the urgent need of providing resources to the AC in its report to the COP. 

24-25 May: Technical Expert Meetings on Adaptation at SB 44

As part of the Technical Examination Process on Adaptation, two technical expert meetings on adaptation (TEM-A) were organized under the umbrella topic: Reducing vulnerability and mainstreaming climate change adaptation, including through the process to formulate and implement national adaptation plans. The first TEM-A focused on enhancing the implementation of adaptation action with emphasis on gaps, needs, challenges, options and opportunities for implementation on the ground; means of implementation, including for the improvement of climate information services and understanding of scientific information at the national level; and good practices for reducing vulnerability. The second TEM-A focused on effective policy frameworks and institutional arrangements for adaptation planning and implementation, including for multi-level governance and monitoring and evaluation. This process was established at COP 21 as part of the enhanced action prior to 2020 in the decision adopting the Paris Agreement.

17 May: Side event of the Adaptation Committee at SB 44 on collaboration with regional centres and networks

This side event took place during SB 44 in Bonn, providing an overview of the ground work already done by the AC on what would be needed in terms of technical support to developing country Parties and subsequently seeking input from the audience on if and how the establishment of a new partnership could be of added value. This side event is one of the many activities under the AC’s workstream on technical support and guidance to Parties, responding to the COP decision 1/CP/16.

12 May: Third Adaptation Forum, Rotterdam, the Netherlands

The third Adaptation Forum took place as part of the 2016 Adaptation Futures conference in Rotterdam, the Netherlands. The AC used the opportunity of having a broad range of experts available to seek input on two out of its five mandates from Paris by first framing and then asking the following two questions: What is needed to objectively review the adequacy and effectiveness of adaptation actions and the support for adaptation in countries? And what can be done to effectively and efficiently recognize the adaptation efforts that have been undertaken by developing countries? The Forum proved a good entry point into the discussion and reflected a broad range of views and understandings regarding both issues. There was broad interest to contribute to the work of the AC on these matters and participants were invited to provide further written inputs via email to AC@unfccc.int..

1-3 March: Ninth meeting of the Adaptation Committee, Bonn, Germany

At its ninth meeting the Adaptation Committee (AC) elected a new Co-Chair, Ms. Minpeng Chen (China) and re-elected Mr. Don Lemmen (Canada). The AC agreed on a revised workplan for the years 2016 to 2018 in line with the new mandates from COP21.

The AC further took into consideration the continued work of its NAP TF and invited the LEG, the SCF, the TEC and the GCF to nominate or re-nominate members.

With regard to supporting the implementation of the Paris outcome, the AC agreed on next steps to undertake the five tasks that were mandated to the AC or to the AC together with other bodies. For the  2016 Technical Examination Process on adaptation (TEP-A) the AC agreed on the umbrella topic “Reducing vulnerability and mainstreaming climate change adaptation, including through the process to formulate and implement national adaptation plans”, which will inform the technical examination meetings as well as the technical papers and summary for policy makers this year.

It also agreed on next steps in the collaboration with the GCF and endorsed a concept note for a side event which will set the groundwork for a potential partnership platform with national, regional and international organizations, centres and networks.

30 November-12 December: COP 21, Paris, France

COP 21 appreciated the progress made by the Adaptation Committee (AC) in the implementation of its first 3-year workplan. Furthermore, it welcomed the report of the AC, including its recommendations and the workplan of the AC for the period 2016–2018 contained in its annex. Based on a recommendation from the AC, the COP invited the IPCC to enhance outreach activities that would facilitate policymakers’ understanding of the impact of different levels of warming on adaptation planning and actions. It requested the AC to further strengthen cooperation with the SCF and other constituted bodies under the Convention, with a view to enhancing coherence and collaboration regarding adaptation finance. In addition, the COP requested the TEC, in collaboration with the CTCN, AC and LEG, to consider how it can help Parties to align their technology needs assessments with the process to formulate and implement NAPs.

The Paris Agreement further contains a range of new activities for the AC, including to conduct a technical examination process on adaptation.

9-12 September: Eighth meeting of the Adaptation Committee, Bonn, Germany

At its eighth meeting the AC agreed on its future workplan for the years 2016-2018. The workplan builds on the results of the AC's work undertaken so far and maintains flexibility to take on new and emerging tasks, including those resulting from future agreements and decisions under the Convention, including COP 21, as well as the 2016 review of the progress and performance of the AC.

The AC further agreed on its inputs to the SCF's guidance to the operating entities of the financial mechanism under the Convention and considered the outlines for two forthcoming publications, namely its 2015 Overview Report and a publication on support available for the process to formulate and implement NAPs. Both publications will be made available before COP 21.

Based on the outcomes of its work carried out throughout 2015, including an input document containing information, key issues and recommendations on the means of implementation for enhanced adaptation action, the AC also agreed on recommendations to be forwarded to COP 21 for consideration, which will be contained in this year's report of the AC.

7-8 September: Expert meeting on promoting livelihoods and economic diversification, Bonn, Germany

The meeting took place immediately before AC 8, building on the relevant work undertaken under the NWP on this matter.
It was held under the guidance of the Chair of the SBSTA and in collaboration with relevant NWP organizations. The expert meeting  was attended by almost 40 experts on livelihood and economic diversification and was informed by a variety of case studies provided by NWP partners. 

Participants discussed economic diversification at the regional and national levels, livelihood diversification at the household and community levels, as well as options to strengthen linkages between both, including processes and tools that can effectively integrate efforts, in particular in the NAP process. For more information please visit the dedicated webpage.

The report on the meeting will be made available for consideration by AC 9. In addition, the AC will also issue in 2016 a user-friendly information product to disseminate the findings from the meeting.

16-17 April: Workshop on experiences, good practices, lessons learned, gaps and needs on the process to formulate and implement national adaptation plans, Bonn, Germany

The AC, in collaboration with the LEG, organized this workshop back to back with the NAP Expo, drawing upon experts and practitioners at different levels to share experiences, good practices, lessons learned, gaps and needs on the process to formulate and implement NAPs. 

The workshop built on the outcomes of the previous year’s meeting organized by the AC's NAP taskforce, the work on the means of implementation for enhanced adaptation action and on information exchanged during the NAP Expo. The workshop was informed by an information paper (FCCC/SBI/2014/INF.14).

At COP 20, Parties decided that there is a need to enhance the reporting on the process to formulate and implement NAPs and noted the need to strengthen the existing reporting related to the process. The COP decided to explore reporting options as part of this workshop and to then further consider how to enhance reporting related to the NAP process at SBI 42. SBI 42 then initiated its consideration of options on this matter, taking into account information contained in the workshop report (FCCC/SBI/2015/INF.6). The SBI agreed to continue that consideration at SBI 44.

7 March: Second Adaptation Forum “Institutional arrangements to build partnerships and strengthen regional networks”  Panama City, Panama

The AC held its 2015 Adaptation Forum in conjunction with the first forum of the Global Adaptation Network (GAN).

The objectives of the 2015 Adaptation Forum were to build and share partnerships and to prioritize areas for cooperation
to support improved regional institutional arrangements for adaptation, as well as encouraging the engagement of regional networks and institutions with the AC.

The event brought together almost 100 participants, including individuals from various adaptation knowledge networks and institutions, government officials and experts working in the field of climate change adaptation, providing an opportunity for dialogue and learning between adaptation actors and networks inter-regionally and globally.

2-4 March: Workshop on the means of implementation for enhanced adaptation action, Bonn, Germany

The overarching topic of the workshop was understanding adaptation finance: how has adaptation finance resulted – or not resulted – in effective and concrete action.

The workshop explored the following five topics: access to finance; national-level institutional arrangements and mobilization of finance in developing countries; the importance of integrating adaptation into development; the role of the private sector; and the NAP process.

The workshop was informed by a synthesis paper ( AC/2015/9), based on submissions and other relevant information on adaptation finance, which was provided as background in advance of the workshop. The synthesis paper, the report on the workshop and other background information are available on the workshop webpage.

24-27 February: Seventh meeting of the Adaptation Committee, Bonn, Germany

At its seventh meeting the Adaptation Committee (AC) members elected a new Co-Chair, Mr. Don Lemmen (Canada) and re-elected Mr. Juan Hoffmaister (Bolivia, Plurinational State of) as Co-Chair. Relevant progress was made, including in the areas of coherence and collaboration, with participation of one of the Co-Chairs of the GCF.

With regard to adaptation finance, the AC agreed to discontinue fragmented discussions and to give that matter a focused discussion space under agenda item on means of implementation. The involvement of external experts was further perceived as a good initiative to advance the work of the AC.

The areas of M&E and NAPs particularly profited from this expert participation, as well as an open discussion day to exchange views and ideas for the next workplan of the Adaptation Committee.

In addition, observers acknowledged the work of the AC and welcomed its transparency.

1–14 December:  COP 20, Lima, Peru

COP 20  appreciated the continued work of the AC on providing technical support and guidance to the Parties on adaptation action, including through the work carried out by the Committee's task force on national adaptation plans. It requested Parties, operating entities of the Financial Mechanism and other relevant entities working on adaptation to consider the recommendations contained in chapter V of the report of the AC.  It welcomed the initiation of consideration by the AC of its next work plan, starting in 2016.

29 September to 1 October: Sixth meeting of the Adaptation Committee, Bonn, Germany

At its sixth meeting the Adaptation Committee (AC) discussed progress on its enhanced collaboration with related processes under the Convention, in particular the Least Developed Countries Expert Group (LEG), the Technology Executive Committee (TEC) and the Standing Committee on Finance (SCF). This includes a number of activities planned jointly, such as an AC/LEG workshop on NAPs and collaboration with Nairobi work programme partners on a workshop on economic diversification and livelihoods, both scheduled for 2015.

Another highlight was progress made on the third thematic workshop planned for 2015, which the AC is organizing under its work stream on means to incentivize the implementation of adaptation action. The AC fleshed out further details on that workshop which is planned to be held during the first quarter of 2015.

The AC further refined a draft thematic report entitled "Institutional arrangements for national adaptation planning and implementation" which will be launched during COP 20 in Lima.

The next meeting of the AC is scheduled to take place in early 2015. The AC is further exploring possibilities to collaborate with UNEP in the organization of the next Adaptation Forum in the context of the Global Adaptation Network (GAN) in early March. The Adaptation Forum would focus on the topic of building partnerships and strengthening regional adaptation networks.

26–27 September: Meeting of the NAP Task Force with representatives from UN agencies, multilateral and bilateral organizations and NGOs

The sixth meeting of the Adaptation Committee (AC) was preceded by a two-day interactive discussion of the AC's Task Force on National Adaptation Plans (NAP Task Force) with representatives from UN agencies, multilateral and bilateral organizations and NGOs supporting the NAP process. The discussion focused on support for NAPs and explored how organizations can best support the process. The findings of that meeting fed into AC6 where the Committee considered possible next steps, which have been included in the report of the AC to COP 20.

1–4 April: Joint meeting of the Adaptation Committee and the Nairobi work programme

The Adaptation Committee (AC), in collaboration with the Nairobi work programme, held a meeting on available tools for the use of indigenous and traditional knowledge and practices for adaptation, needs of local and indigenous communities, and the application of gender-sensitive approaches and tools for adaptation. The observations and findings made at the meeting are available in the meeting report: FCCC/SBSTA/2014/INF.11.

5–7 March: Fifth meeting of the Adaptation Committee, Bonn, Germany

At the fifth meeting of the Adaptation Committee (AC) members elected new Co-Chairs, Mr. Juan Pablo Hoffmaister (Bolivia) and Ms. Christina Chan (US). The agenda spanned a wide range of topics, including activities geared towards developing strong working linkages between global, regional and national levels. One of the results in this area was the establishment of a new working group under the AC focusing on technical support for adaptation.

Strengthening National Adaptation Plans (NAPs) was a further emphasis of AC5, with the initial meeting of the AC's task force on National Adaptation Plans (NAP Task Force) taking place. Members of the NAP Task Force initiated consideration of a work plan (232 kB) at the meeting and were able to finalize and publish it soon after.

11–22 November: COP 19, Warsaw, Poland

The COP, by decision 16/CP.19, welcomed the report of the Adaptation Committee (AC) and noted with appreciation the progress made by the AC in the implementation of its 3-year workplan, in particular the  progress  made  in  promoting  coherence  in  adaptation  under  the Convention, the 2013 thematic report on the state of adaptation, the first annual Adaptation Forum and the establishment of the task force on national adaptation plans. Parties also welcomed the  elaboration of the activities in the 3-year workplan (128 kB) under three workstreams in order to enhance overall coherence.The AC was encouraged to continue its work on providing technical support and guidance to the Parties, in particular in the area of national adaptation plans, and  to  seek  further  coherence  and  synergy with other relevant bodies and programmes under the Convention.

9–11 September: Workshop on monitoring and evaluation of adaptation, Nadi, Fiji

A workshop on monitoring and evaluation of adaptation took place in Nadi, Fiji, from 9–11 September 2013. The Adaptation Committee (AC) organized this workshop in order to build on and contribute to existing processes related to the topic. The workshop engaged leaders in the monitoring and evaluation of adaptation with expertise in implementing adaptation at different levels, including the national, programme and project levels, from governments, regional organizations, development banks, bilateral technical cooperation agencies, research institutions and civil society. The workshop report will be made available on the AC's web pages. Following its consideration of that report in early 2014, the ACwill provide COP 20 with recommendations and guidance for its consideration.

5–7 September: Fourth meeting of the Adaptation Committee, Nadi, Fiji

At its fourth meeting the Adaptation Committee (AC) was able to significantly progress its work in the area of promoting coherence in adaptation under the Convention, which is a standing item on its agenda. The Committee identified areas of collaboration with other bodies under the Convention, including the Nairobi work programme on impacts, vulnerability and adaptation to climate change (NWP) and the Least Developed Countries Expert Group (LEG). It established a task force on National Adaptation Plans (NAP Task Force), aiming to further support developing countries seeking to formulate and implement NAPs. Furthermore, the AC elaborated on developing synergies with organizations, centres and networks outside of the Convention. The Committee also discussed a number of activities aimed at providing technical support and guidance to the Parties in two main areas: on adaptation actions and on means of implementation, which include finance, technology and capacity-building. It also finalized work on its first thematic report, which aims at providing a snapshot of the state of adaptation under the Convention and how it has evolved to this point. A comprehensive account on the AC's work in 2013 is included in document FCCC/SB/2013/2.

18–20 June: Third meeting of the Adaptation Committee, Bonn, Germany

At its third meeting the Adaptation Committee made good progress on the implementation of its three-year work plan. Constructive discussion resulted in the definition of next steps in key areas of the AC's work, such as promoting coherence of adaptation under the Convention, including on means of implementation; and preparation of a workshop on monitoring and evaluation of adaptation. The AC also finalized a call for submissions to regional institutions and UN agencies on information on their support for adaptation.

5–8 March: Second meeting of the Adaptation Committee, Bonn, Germany

The Adaptation Committee held its second meeting from 5–8 March 2013. The Committee elaborated on next steps in the implementation of its three-year work plan (142 kB) agreed in Doha. Topics discussed at the meeting included, inter alia, coherence and collaboration on adaptation-related matters under the Convention, information on support for adaptation in developing countries, work related to national adaptation planning for LDCs and non-LDC developing Parties, initial scoping of a workshop on monitoring and evaluation of adaptation, as well as the Adaptation Committee’s response to a call for views on long-term finance.

29 November – 8 December, COP 18 , Doha, Qatar

The COP, at its 18th session, approved the first report of the Adaptation Committee without any amendments. The report contains information on the work of the Committee during its first year, as well as recommendations to the COP on support for the national adaptation plan process for LDC and non-LDC Parties. The report also contains the three-year work plan (142 kB) and the rules of procedure of the Adaptation Committee.

7–10 September, First meeting of the Adaptation Committee, Bangkok, Thailand

After an extended waiting period due to the late submission of nominations, the Adaptation Committee held its inaugural meeting in Bangkok, Thailand. The Committee elected its Chair and Vice-Chair and established a three-year work plan. The Committee also agreed on a set of rules of procedures which are based on the provisions established at COP 17.

28 November–9 December: COP 17, Durban, South Africa

At AWG-LCA 14, part 4, followed by COP 17, Parties agreed on the composition of, and modalities and procedures for the Adaptation Committee. In addition, they defined linkages with other institutions under and outside the Convention and agreed on an indicative list of activities for the Committee to consider when developing its workplan.

1–7 October, Climate Change Conference, Panama City, Panama

At AWG-LCA 14, part 3, Parties, based on the facilitator's note from Bonn, focused their discussions on modalities and activities of the Adaptation Committee. Following additional inputs from Parties and groups of Parties, Parties agreed to forward to AWG-LCA 14, part 4 a draft decision text, which would serve as the basis for finalizing negotiations on making the Adaptation Committee operational.

6–17 June, Climate Change Conference Bonn, Germany

At AWG-LCA 14, part 2, Parties began their discussions on the Adaptation Committee in earnest and considered issues such as operational and organizational modalities and procedures; composition, expertise and terms of office for members, and links with institutions and bodies under and outside the Convention. Parties agreed to forward to AWG-LCA 14, part 3, a note by the Facilitator containing a draft decision text, which would serve as a basis for negotiations.

5–8 April, Climate Change Conference Bangkok, Thailand

At AWG-LCA14, part 1, Parties had before them views (see also Add.1 and Add.2) and a synthesis report on the proposed composition, modalities, procedures and linkages of the Adaptation Committee in order for them to develop a draft decision on the Adaptation Committee to be adopted by COP 17.

29 November-10 December, COP 16, Cancun, Mexico

Parties adopted the Cancun Adaptation Framework (CAF) as part of the Cancun Agreements. In the Agreements, Parties affirmed that adaptation must be addressed with the same level of priority as mitigation. The CAF was the result of three years of negotiations on adaptation under the AWG-LCA that followed the adoption of the Bali Action Plan (BAP) at COP 13 in Bali, Indonesia. The BAP sought to enable the full, effective and sustained implementation of the Convention through long-term cooperative action, now, up to and beyond 2012.

As agreed by Parties, enhanced action and international cooperation on adaptation is urgently required to enable and support the implementation of adaptation actions aimed at reducing vulnerability and building resilience in developing country Parties, taking into account the urgent and immediate needs of those developing countries that are particularly vulnerable. Parties as part of the CAF:

• Initiated a process to enable LDC Parties - building upon their experience with the NAPAs - to formulate and implement National Adaptation Plans and extended an invitation to other developing country Parties to employ the modalities formulated to support those plans;
• Established a work programme to consider approaches to address loss and damage associated with climate change impacts in developing countries that are particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of climate change;
• Established an Adaptation Committee to promote the implementation of enhanced actions on adaptation in a coherent manner under the Convention.