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CENN - MAY 11, 2005 Daily Digest
Table of Contents:
1.. The Magazine "Caucasus Environment
2.. Multilateral Development Bank Assistance Proposals Likely to Have
Adverse Impacts on The Environment, Natural Resources, Public Health and
Indigenous Peoples
3.. BTC Security Discussed in Baku
4.. Justice Ministry Creates Database for NGOs
5.. Millennium Challenge Compact to be signed in June
6.. Transparency Missing from MCG Says NGO
7.. Civil Society Calls for More Tras3epracy in Millennium Challenge
Program
8.. Journalists Trained in Environmental and Energy Issues
9.. SOS!!! --- Save the Shikahogh Reserve
10.. Europe and North Asia Forest Law Enforcement and Governance (ENA
FLEG) Ministerial Process
11.. 5th International Fundraising Workshop, 28 - 31st May 2005,
Yalta, Crimea, Ukraine
12.. Announcement -- Guria Youth Resource Center
13.. EIA Reports
1. The magazine "Caucasus Environment
We are still submitting articles for the magazine "Caucasus
Environment". The coming issue is dedicated to the "TECHNOLOGIES AND
SCIENCE/THE ENVIRONMENT" of the Caucasus. The latest deadline is 20 May
2005. Do not loose this unique chance to tell the world about you, your
organization, your scientific work, interesting technology or any other
material you would like to share.
Please send your articles and photos to Catherine Nakashidze
[email protected]
2. MULTILATERAL DEVELOPMENT BANK ASSISTANCE PROPOSALSLIKELY TO
HAVE ADVERSE IMPACTS ON THE ENVIRONMENT, NATURAL RESOURCES, PUBLIC
HEALTH AND INDIGENOUS PEOPLES
Dear CENN Readers,
Please find extract on BTC from USAId last report with nice title:
MULTILATERAL DEVELOPMENT BANK ASSISTANCE PROPOSALSLIKELY TO HAVE ADVERSE
IMPACTS ON THE ENVIRONMENT, NATURAL RESOURCES, PUBLIC HEALTH AND
INDIGENOUS PEOPLES
S e p t e m b e r 2 0 0 2 - O c t o b e r 2 0 0 4
Please see the attached file.
3. BTC Security Discussed in Baku
Source: The Messenger, May 6, 2005
The operation of the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan pipeline and its security were
discussed at conference in Baku on Tuesday, May 3, 2005 which brought
together representatives form Azerbaijan, Georgia, Turkey and the US
Black Sea Press reports.
Azerbaijan Vice Premier Abid Sharifov told journalists following the
meeting that the first tankers carrying oil would leave Ceyhan in the
fourth quarter of the current year.
He said that the security of the BTC pipeline was to be guaranteed by
the governments of Azerbaijan, Georgia and Turkey.
4. Justice Ministry Creates Database for NGOs
Source: The Messenger, May 6, 2005
On Thursday, May 5, 2005 Ministry of Justice officials presented a new
database of Georgian NGOs. According to deputy justice minister
Konstantine Vardzelashvili, ministry officials had been collecting data
base on NGOs in all district courts of Georgia. The work on database
started on March 1 this year as a result of new legislation that
transfers responsibility for registering NGOs from the courts to the
ministry.
The new database includes information on NGOs, their activities,
founders and members. Due to the legal amendments, the time period for
NGOs registration is also shortened to 15 days instead of one month.
5. Millennium Challenge Compact to be signed in June
Source: The Messenger, May 6, 2005
Negotiations between Georgia and the United States regarding millennium
Challenge Account (mCA) funding for programs in Georgia are in final
stage. The US Congress will discuss MCA funding for Georgia in June, and
it is expected that it will approve a compact involving around USD 200
million in aid over the course of two years.
A delegation from Millennium Challenge Georgia (MCG) arrived back from
one week visit in Washington this week having presented the Millennium
Challenge Corporation (MCC), set up to oversee distribution of MCA
funds, with a set of projects aimed at boosting economic growth in
Georgia.
Speaking with the Messenger on Thursday, May 5, 2005, Millennium
Challenge Georgia CEO Lasha Shanidze said MCG expected that a compact
would be signed in June and that funding would be agreed for al four of
its proposed projects.
The first of these regards the construction of a road to
Samtskhe-Javakheti, a project that Mr. Shanidze says has a "bright
future." Following what he describes as extensive feasibility studies
and preparation, the road project "looks good."
According to 24 Saati, MCG has managed to win increased funding for the
road USD 120-125 million instead of USD 100 million, so as to pay for
the restoration of 310 km rather that the initially planned 250 km.
Mr. Shanidze is also positive about the creation of a Georgia
development Fund to support the development of tourism and agriculture,
and an Infrastructure development Fund to support the development of
infrastructure in the regions.
Nothing that while some similar funds in the past have been successful,
others have not, Mr. Shanidze underlined that a lot of work had been put
in regarding how the two funds would work.
The fourth project concerns rehabilitation of the energy sector in the
country. It was originally envisaged that funds would be sought to
repair hydroelectric stations and regulate consumption.
But as Mr. Shanidze stated it was recently decided to apply for
Millennium Challenge funding to pay for the repair wok needed on the
trunk gas pipeline which the government said earlier this year would be
privatized, possibly to Russian energy giant Gazprom.
MCA funding would provide an alternative to having to privatize the
pipeline, an issue that has generate a great deal of controversy,
leading several US officials including Ambassador Richard Miles to
intervene to say the Georgian government should not privatize the
pipeline.
Not to do so meat finding an alternative source of funding for the
pipeline, and it was for this reason that MCG approached the MCC with
the idea. Changing the application for funding at such a late stage in
the negotiating process was "dangerous", Mr. Shanidze admits. "But we
managed to convince the American side of the economic and political
importance of the gas pipeline," he says.
6. Transparency Missing from MCG Says NGO
Source: The Messenger, May 6, 2005
Millennium Challenge Georgia says its activities are fully transparent,
accepts recommendation to make information about transaction public
The Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) and Millennium Challenge
Georgia (MCG) have been accused of refusing to enter into dialogue with
civil society and of reaching decisions at closed door meetings that
lack transparency and accountability.
In a press released issued on Wednesday May 4, 2005 NGO Transparency
International Georgia (TI) said that "civil society's attempts to
coordinate in a substantive way with the MCC and MCG have largely been
rejected."
Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, TI Georgia Chair Mark
Mullen said that the decision "not to have substantive dialogue with
civil society is unfortunate, and dangerous."
He added that the lack of transparency in reaching decisions regarding
aid to Georgia from the Millennium Challenge Account was particularly
worrying given "the sad history of misuse of public funs in Georgia."
Mark Mullen stressed that TI Georgia was "very, very supportive of the
Millennium Challenge process," which he described as a "revolutionary
way to deliver assistance. We believe it will be one of the great
legacies of the Bush administration," he added.
But he said that because the Millennium Challenge Account (MCA) was so
new - it was set up in 2004 - there was a need to focus on the process
of delivering aid as to ensure its transparency, which would in turn
guarantee that the funds wee well spent.
This required dialogue with civic institutions, he said "But we have
tried to enter into dialogue with both MCC Washington and Millennium
Challenge Georgia, yet so far our efforts have been rejected."
While generally for mechanism to be put in place to ensure transparency
and accountability, TI Georgia has proposed the specific recommendation
that information regarding financial transactions be made public within
24 hours. Such information should give details regarding the "date,
amount and currency of payment; legal name and country of the recipient;
and a short description of what the payment is for."
This would "allow the Georgian people to directly oversee the funding
process and examine who exactly is benefiting from these funds. It is
important for statements to include a detailed recording of the
expenditure of MCG funds in order to ensure that journalists or civic
organizations can track potential conflicts of interest," the chair of
TI Georgia stated.
Mr. Mullen said that the NGO has sent this recommendation to both the
MCC and MCG but "we have yet to receive a response from either."
In an interview with The messenger, however, MCG CEO Lasha Shanidze said
that MCG had already agreed to make such information pubic according to
the guidelines set out by TI. "The recommendation is absolutely
acceptable to us," he said, adding that "we are advocates of
transparency and are fully aware that mechanisms need to be put in [lace
to ensure transparency."
Mr. Shanidze admitted that MCG had been slow to respond to TI's letter
recommending the guidelines, largely because he was in Washington at the
time negotiating with representatives of the Millennium Challenge
Account.
But he said that full information regarding any agreement reached with
the MCC, and any transaction between the two, would be made available on
an MCG website.
The CEO of MCG roundly rejected TI charged that the organization has
avoided substantive dialogue with civic society.
He said that MCG had "dialogue with civil; society and business from the
very earliest stage of consultations. We worked very hard to communicate
with everybody," he said.
TI's Mark Mullen, however, says that MCG was "too careful in selecting
which organizations could take part in discussions, leaving itself open
to the charge of wanting to tightly control the process and
information."
Mr. Shanidze, however, says that MCG entered substantial dialogue when
putting together its proposals for funding, and assures that it will
provide full information regarding any agreement once a compact has been
signed between MCG and the MCC.
During the "very delicate negotiation process," however, he said it was
very difficult to make public announcements. "Saying something which
might change could damage Georgia," he stressed. "What can we say when
there has been decision?"
7. Civil Society Calls for More Tras3epracy in Millennium
Challenge Program
Source: The Messenger, May 9, 2005
Although the US government has not still approved a large paid package
to Georgia through its new millennium Challenge Account Program, civil
society already express concern about how funds will be spent from this
account.
Last week NGO Transparency International Georgia (TI) put out a
statement to accuse the millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) in
Washington and Millennium Challenge Georgia (MCG) of apparent reluctance
to coordinate with civil society.
"Civil Society's attempts to coordinate in a substantive way with the
MCC and MCG have largely been rejected. Instead, MCC and MCG have
favored closed door meetings that have achieved little other than to say
that they have happened," the press release goes.
Convening a special press conference last week Mark Mullen. Head of
Transparency International Georgia said that "both the recipient country
and donor government have the incentives and ability to keep the
information about these funds between themselves . The impression I have
is that MCG has been careful in selecting the organizations and
participants at the meeting rather than allowing civil society to choose
who and how they will participate. MCG themselves try to strategically
select the participants of the meeting leaving itself open to the charge
of wanting to tightly control the process and information."
Serving as head of NDI Georgia for many years (before moving to TI) Mark
Mullen is the person who knows too many cases ho aid funds had
disappeared in the corruption rampant Georgia. To avoid more cases of
malpractice, Mark Mullen recommends the MCG to put in place more
mechanisms to ensure transparency and accountability.
According to the TI recommendation, MCG should make publicity available
within 24 hours payment the following information for all financial
transactions: date, amount, and currency payment; legal name and country
of the recipient and a short description of what the payment is for.
Criticism of MCG was also voiced by other representatives of civil
society who were also present at the press conference.
"MCG is a fund founded by the government. Like in many other cases where
finances are involved the government here again tries to withhold
information about what is happening inside," Tina Khidasheli from Open
Society - Georgia Foundation said.
However, Eka Zguladze, Public Outreach Coordinator, dismissed criticism
MCG has never refused to dialogue with NGOs.
"mcg had dialogue with civil society and business from the very
earliest stage of consultations. We work very hard to communicate with
civil society and are ready to take into consideration the
recommendation of civil society," she told GT.
Georgia is now near the top of the candidate list for the alternative US
aid program - the millennium Challenge Account --- is likely this summer
to sign a compact for up to $200 million aimed at infrastructure
improvements.
Georgia's proposal includes a road project to connect the isolated
southern Akhalkalaki region with the rest of Georgia. The project is
designed to open the region for the development as well as facilitate
trade ruts between Turkey and Armenia.
Another project would use MCG funds to rehabilitate the north south gas
pipeline from Russia. The Government of Georgia earlier this year had
discussed selling the pipeline to Russia's state company Gazprom. But
now government committed to refurbishing the crucial pipeline itself
with the help of the US program. Georgia is also proposing the use a
portion of the MCG funds to provide equity capital for investments in
agriculture and tourism in the country's rural regions.
8. Journalists Trained in Environmental and Energy Issues
Source: The Messenger, May 10, 2005
Two British trainers are conducting a training seminar on environmental
and energy issues with students of GIPA's Caucasus School of Journalism
and Media Management (GSJMM) on May 8-13, 2005 in Tbilisi.
The purpose of the seminar will be to teach twenty three postgraduate
journalism students (from Georgia, Azerbaijan, and Armenia) reporting
techniques on how to effectively cover environmental, energy and utility
subjects and to apply them professionally in the work place throughout
the Caucasus. Public awareness of these important issues would then be
raised.
In a press release the British Embassy said the BBC trainers also
conducted a one day workshop funded by the embassy for a mixed group of
journalists and students from the Department of Journalism at Tbilisi
State University on May 7, 2005.
9. SOS!!! --- Save the Shikahogh Reserve
The Armenian Office of the Caucasus Programme of World Wide Fund for
Nature (WWF) appeals to all the interested organizations for assistance
to preventing the Government of Armenia from realizing the project of
constructing a highway cutting through Shikahogh Reserve.
This project is designed by "Transproject" Company under the authority
of the Ministry of Transport and Communication of Republic of Armenia.
This project is a pure example of anti-environmental approach. In case
of the realization of the project at least 30 ha of the reserve's
territory will be destroyed, over 14,000 oak trees will be cut down,
which will cause deforestation of the unique and the only remained
virgin oak forest in Armenia and correspondingly it will lead to the
extermination of many species inhabiting there. It should be mentioned
that there are many endangered species of plants and animals in the
reserve, including endemic ones. The populations of animals' species
included in IUCN Red Data List, as such leopard, bezoar goat, mouflon,
will be under a great threat.
The environmental consequences on realization of the project will be as
follows:
1.. Habitats loss of many rare and endangered species of plants and
animals;
2.. Pollution of the environment bordering to the highway territories;
3.. Free movement of poachers;
4.. Extermination of the only survived population of the leopard in
Armenia;
5.. Extermination of many other endangered species of animals and
plants;
6.. Fragmentation and degradation of the habitats.
It should be also noted the project will be carried out, such
international conventions as "Convention on Biodiversity", Rio-de
Janeiro, 1992, (Ratifited 31.03.1993); "UN Framework Convention on
Climate Change", New-York, 1992, (Ratified 29.03.1993); "Convention on
Combat Desertification" Paris, 1994, (Ratified 23.06.1997); "Convention
on Access to Information, Public Participation in Decision-making and to
Justice in Environmental Matters", Orchus, 1998, (Ratified 14.05.2001)
ratified by the Armenian Government will be violated.
Meantime the Legislation of Republic of Armenia (RA) will be violated as
well, in particular: Low of RA on "Specially protected natural areas";
Low of RA on "Flora"; Low of RA on "Fauna"; Forest Code` of RA; Low of
RA on "Examination of influence on environment".
The Governmental officials persist that the highway has a strategic
importance, but none of them can explain why they have chosen the way
through the reserve. In our opinion, the Government can introduce
changes in the project, avoiding the reserve and taking an alternative
way, as it has been suggested by WWF and other organizations.
In case the Government doesn't take into consideration the alternative
way we can make a conclusion that the highway through Shikahogh reserve
is not for strategic aims, but for getting oak timber from the
reserve!!!
Different environmental NGOs have already expressed their readiness to
promote actions against the construction of the highway through the
reserve.
We suppose that assistance of influential international organizations
collaborating with Armenian Government will allow achieving a positive
decision on the alternative part of the highway excluding the reserve.
We would like to inform all stakeholders that the machinery for highway
construction has been already brought to Tsav Village near the reserve
and the construction of the highway from the other side of the Meghri
mountain ridge has been already started without any public discussions.
We are looking forward to your kind assistance,
Dr. Karen Manvelyan
National Director
Armenian Office of Caucasus Programme
World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF)
10. Europe and North Asia Forest Law Enforcement and Governance
(ENA FLEG) Ministerial Process
Local and National Civil Society Participation in ENA FLEG PrepConf[1]
June 6-8, 2005, Moscow, Russia
Self-Selection Process
Background: The Europe and North Asia Forest Law Enforcement and
Governance (ENA FLEG) ministerial process aims to mobilize international
commitment from producer, consumer and donor governments to increase
efforts to combat illegal logging as well as the associated trade and
corruption in the forest sector. The ENA FLEG aims to create the
political space at national and regional levels to address these complex
and politically sensitive issues more concertedly in the future and in
partnership with major stakeholders from civil society and the private
sector. Specifically, the FLEG process recognizes the need for joint
efforts and shared responsibility of wood products producing countries,
consuming countries, civil society (especially private sector and NGOs)
and donors.
ENA FLEG Preparatory Conference: The ENA-FLEG Ministerial Conference
will be preceded by a Preparatory Conference (PrepConf) on June 6-8,
2005. The PrepConf is the first event in which many governments and
stakeholders become actively engaged in the ENA FLEG process. The
objectives of the PrepConf are (a) knowledge sharing of FLEG experience
in ENA and globally; (b) confirming political commitment to the FLEG
process and associated activities; and (c) the initiation of discussions
that will lead to an ENA FLEG Declaration and Indicative Action Plan.
More information on the ENA FLEG process and the PrepConf can be found
at www.worldbank.org/forests
Selecting Civil Society Representatives for the ENA FLEG Preparatory
Conference: The International Steering Committee[2] (ISC) of the
ENA-FLEG Ministerial Conference recognizes the need for informed broad
stakeholder engagement and civil society participation in the ENA FLEG
process, including during the early stages leading up to the first
Preparatory Conference (PrepConf).
The International Steering Committee of the ENA FLEG Process has asked
IUCN to organize of a self selection process to identify 15 local and
national civil society representatives to participate in the ENA FLEG
Preparatory Conference (PrepConf), to be held in Moscow on June 6-8,
2005. The organization of the self-selection process is outlined in the
following pages.
A separate process will be undertaken by the World Bank to select
international NGOs (for further information, please see
www.worldbank.org/
ENA FLEG Local / National NGO Self-Selection Process
A. Allocation of Slots: Participation by local and national
civil society organizations from the ENA-FLEG area will be limited to 15
representatives, as outlined by the ISC at its first meeting in February
2005. There 15 will be identified in a self-selection process organized
by IUCN. In addition to a broad geographic coverage, these 15 should
have a broad mix of experience, not only on illegal logging but on
related issues such as nature protection and on social aspects.
IUCN will notify the ENA FLEG ISC of the outcomes of the self-selection
process. The World Bank, co-host of the ENA FLEG PrepConf with the
Russian Ministry of Natural Resources, will cover the costs of travel,
accommodation and participation to the conference selected civil society
representatives, based on need.
Based on the recommendations of the ISC, it has been suggested that the
15 slots be allocated as follows:
Russia, Central Asia and Caucasus (5)
· 3 Russia (Western, Far East and one other)
· 1 Central Asia (one of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan,
Turkmenistan, or Uzbekistan)
· 1 Caucasus (one of Armenia, Azerbaijan, or Georgia)
China (2)
· 2 China
Mongolia, Japan (2)
· 1 Mongolia
· 1 Japan
Central and Eastern Europe (2)
· 2 Central and Eastern Europe
Western and Southern Europe
· 1 Western Europe (local NGO, CBO or IPO)
· 1 Southern Europe (local NGO, CBO or IPO)
Indigenous peoples and ethnic minorities (2)
· 2 indigenous peoples and ethnic minorities (though could be
additional representation through country and regional slots)
B. Selection Criteria: Adopted from the recommendations of the
International Steering Committee, participants should generally meet the
following criteria:
General criteria
· The civil society group has to be local or national.
· At least 7 places will be reserved for female
representatives.
· At least two places will be reserved for representatives of
indigenous peoples.
Representative (Individual) Criteria
· Has experience of high relevance to the ENA FLEG process.
· Has knowledge of and practical experience of lobbying at the
local, national, regional and/or international level.
· Has demonstrated a high degree of interest in the ENA-FLEG
process so far.
· Will be present for and actively participating in the entire
PrepConf and pre-meeting
· Is able and willing to make a firm commitment to personally:
a.. Coordinate with other civil society groups in advance of and
during the PrepConf including participating in daily civil society
"delegation" meetings and ensuring that all key sessions are covered
b.. Represent the wider civil society community at the PrepConf,
rather than just the interests of his/her own organization
c.. Personally contact key government representatives before the
PrepConf meeting to pass on civil society recommendations and/or
participate in awareness raising missions with the project coordinators
(though of course not if this could affect personal security)
· Able and willing to prepare fully for the PrepConf,
including:
a.. Review the outcomes of all of the preparatory workshops and
analysis
b.. Comment on civil society positions and coordinate with other
representatives in the weeks leading up to the PrepConf.
c.. Review all of the official materials for the PrepConf.
d.. Contribute to developing and implementing a strategy for
advocating civil society positions in advance of and during the
PrepConf.
Organization Criteria
· Demonstrates a capacity and experience in representing a
range of views and in two-way communication with the civil society
groups and stakeholders they represent. This could also include
compiling comments from other organizations and disseminating /
presenting them without allowing their own-bias to interfere.
· Demonstrates a high degree of interest and engagement in the
ENA-FLEG process so far
· Willing to make a firm commitment to coordinate with other
civil society groups in advance of and during the PrepConf
· Has a good geographical spread (i.e. good representation of
interests in one or more relevant regions)
· Committed to disseminating information to other civil
society groups during and after the PrepConf, including reporting on the
outcomes of the meeting
· Has established informal or formal partnerships with other
civil society groups in their region or country
· Has solid experience and capacity for networking with civil
society and other key actors.
C. Structure and Timeline of Self-Selection Process: The following steps
will be followed for the self-selection process:
1. Dissemination of information and application form /
questionnaire (May 5): IUCN offices in 6 countries[3] will have the
primary responsibility to distribute the information about the
self-selection process to as many civil society organizations as
possible. Other IUCN members in the ENA-FLEG region (there are more than
50) will also be encouraged to disseminate the information. Information
will also be sent through the mailing lists of the Taiga Rescue Network
and other networks active in the region.
2. Application process (deadline May 10): Those interested in
participating will be invited to fill out the application form /
questionnaire attached to this document and return it by May 13, 2005 to
the IUCN office in their country or region. In addition, all those
interested civil society groups (including those who are not nominating
themselves) will be given a chance to identify their 1st and 2nd choices
3. Evaluation of applications / questionnaires (May 10-11): The
IUCN offices will apply the criteria, take account of the designated 1st
and 2nd choices and make recommendations for the allocation of slots in
their country or region. These will be tabulated and an overall list of
recommendations will be produced.
4. Preliminary list of recommendations sent to civil society
groups for comment (May 11) The results will be distributed to all
interested local and national civil society groups for comment.
5. Comments on preliminary list (deadline May 15)
6. Revision of list of recommendations if necessary (May 16-17):
The recommendation will be revised and redistributed for further comment
if there is significant agreement among the civil society groups on any
changes that may be required
7. Submission of List to ENA FLEG ISC (May 18): A final list will
be compiled and will be transmitted to the International Steering
Committee and World Bank. The World Bank will begin to process
invitations and visa applications.
D. IUCN and World Bank Contacts: Please contact the following
IUCN contacts if you have had any specific questions about the
self-selection process. Other queries on the ENA FLEG process can be
sent to [email protected]
Russia, Central Asia and Caucasus
Victor Teplyakov, IUCN Russia and CIS office in Moscow
[email protected]
China
Seth Cook, IUCN Country Office in China
[email protected]
Mongolia, Japan
Guido Broekhoven, IUCN Regional Office for Asia in Bangkok
[email protected]
Central and Eastern Europe
Zenon Tederko
IUCN Office for Central end Eastern Europe in Warsaw
[email protected]
or
Jörg Lohmann, IUCN South-Eastern Europe Office in Belgrade
[email protected]
Tel: +381 11 2272 259
Western and Southern Europe
Caroline Nienhuis, IUCN Regional Office for Europe
[email protected]
Tel. +32 2 732 82 99 / +32 2 739 3006 (direct); Fax: +32 2 732 94 99
Indigenous peoples and ethnic minorities
Contact most relevant IUCN office from above.
11. 5th International Fundraising Workshop, 28 - 31st May 2005,
Yalta, Crimea, Ukraine
Will be held from 28th - 31st May 2005 in Yalta, Crimea, Ukraine.
The 3-day workshop on resource mobilization for the post Soviet & East
Europe region will be organized by the Center for Philanthropy from
Ukraine in partnership with the Resource Alliance.
The Workshop will gather non-profit executives from all over the region
to find new and meaningful ways of mobilizing local communities to
create a greater social impact.
It will enable participants to develop cutting edge skills and knowledge
in various resource mobilization methods such as leadership, strategic
planning, communications and developing relations with potential and
existing donors.
More than just a means of imparting new skills or knowledge, the
Workshop will offer participants the opportunity to meet and exchange
ideas in a highly interactive and collaborative environment, turning
their experiences into raw materials for new learning.
To view the Workshop programme please click here:
http://www.resource-alliance.org/page.php?sectionid=3D6&subsectionid=3D19&p ageid=3D552
12. Announcement -- Guria Youth Resource Center
Guria Youth Resource Center which is located in the south-west corner of
Georgia, near the Black Sea Coast is created to promote active
citizenship to ultimately achieve the civil society.
Since its establishment in 2002, the Center has served more then 4000
disadvantaged youth. Through series of human rights trainings, technical
courses and community service projects.
The founders have 14 years of experience in the non-profit sector. One
of the five founders of the organization is a US Peace Corps Volunteer.
The organization implements its activities throughout the Region.
Guria Youth Resource Center has new Web site: gyrc.org.ge
Web-site has been developed under the framework of the project
"Democracy Must Be Learnt By Each Generation" implemented by the Guria
Youth Resource Center and funded by the US Embassy in Georgia.
13. EIA Reports
Source: "Sakartvelos Respublica" ("Republic of Georgia"), May 6, 2005
In accordance with the Georgian legislation, community association
"Ninotsminda" Ltd. submitted EIA report to the Ministry of Environment
of Georgia to obtain an environmental permit for the activity of second
category - Project on Spasovki Hydroelectric station on river
Bugdasheni Ninotsminda Region.
In accordance with the Georgian legislation, community association
"Dzama" Ltd. submitted EIA report to the Ministry of Environment of
Georgia to obtain an environmental permit for the activity of second
category - Project on Gas Supply of the Villages Kekhi Jvari, Sanebeli
and Vedreba in Kareli Region.
In accordance with the Georgian legislation, "Mtsi Artsivi" Ltd.
submitted EIA report to the Ministry of Environment of Georgia to obtain
an environmental permit for the activity of second category - Processing
of the Spasovki Vulcan Deposit in Ninotsminda Region.
In accordance with the Georgian legislation, "Klein Georgia" Ltd.
submitted EIA report to the Ministry of Environment of Georgia to obtain
an environmental permit for the activity of second category -Development
of the Inert Materials ion the River Natanebi and Supsa.
EIA reports are available at the Department of Environmental Permits and
State Ecological Expertise (6 Gulua Str.). Interested stakeholders can
analyze the document and present their comments and considerations until
June 21, 2005.
Public hearing will be held on June 21, 2005 at 12:00, at the conference
hall of the Ministry of Environment.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[1] Financially supported by the Governments of Canada and Germany.
[2] The ENA FLEG International Steering Committee is composed of the
governments of Bulgaria, Canada, Finland, Germany, Japan, Kazakhstan,
Russia, Poland, Turkey, United Kingdom, and the United States, as well
as the World Bank and the European Commission.
§ IUCN Regional Office for Europe in Brussels; IUCN Office for
Russia and CIS, including Central Asia in Moscow; IUCN Office for
Central end Eastern Europe in Warsaw; IUCN South-Eastern Europe Office
in Belgrade; IUCN Regional Office for Asia in Bangkok; IUCN Country
Office in China
*******************************************
CENN INFO
Caucasus Environmental NGO Network (CENN)
Tel: ++995 32 75 19 03/04
Fax: ++995 32 75 19 05
E-mail: [email protected]
URL: www.cenn.org
Table of Contents:
1.. The Magazine "Caucasus Environment
2.. Multilateral Development Bank Assistance Proposals Likely to Have
Adverse Impacts on The Environment, Natural Resources, Public Health and
Indigenous Peoples
3.. BTC Security Discussed in Baku
4.. Justice Ministry Creates Database for NGOs
5.. Millennium Challenge Compact to be signed in June
6.. Transparency Missing from MCG Says NGO
7.. Civil Society Calls for More Tras3epracy in Millennium Challenge
Program
8.. Journalists Trained in Environmental and Energy Issues
9.. SOS!!! --- Save the Shikahogh Reserve
10.. Europe and North Asia Forest Law Enforcement and Governance (ENA
FLEG) Ministerial Process
11.. 5th International Fundraising Workshop, 28 - 31st May 2005,
Yalta, Crimea, Ukraine
12.. Announcement -- Guria Youth Resource Center
13.. EIA Reports
1. The magazine "Caucasus Environment
We are still submitting articles for the magazine "Caucasus
Environment". The coming issue is dedicated to the "TECHNOLOGIES AND
SCIENCE/THE ENVIRONMENT" of the Caucasus. The latest deadline is 20 May
2005. Do not loose this unique chance to tell the world about you, your
organization, your scientific work, interesting technology or any other
material you would like to share.
Please send your articles and photos to Catherine Nakashidze
[email protected]
2. MULTILATERAL DEVELOPMENT BANK ASSISTANCE PROPOSALSLIKELY TO
HAVE ADVERSE IMPACTS ON THE ENVIRONMENT, NATURAL RESOURCES, PUBLIC
HEALTH AND INDIGENOUS PEOPLES
Dear CENN Readers,
Please find extract on BTC from USAId last report with nice title:
MULTILATERAL DEVELOPMENT BANK ASSISTANCE PROPOSALSLIKELY TO HAVE ADVERSE
IMPACTS ON THE ENVIRONMENT, NATURAL RESOURCES, PUBLIC HEALTH AND
INDIGENOUS PEOPLES
S e p t e m b e r 2 0 0 2 - O c t o b e r 2 0 0 4
Please see the attached file.
3. BTC Security Discussed in Baku
Source: The Messenger, May 6, 2005
The operation of the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan pipeline and its security were
discussed at conference in Baku on Tuesday, May 3, 2005 which brought
together representatives form Azerbaijan, Georgia, Turkey and the US
Black Sea Press reports.
Azerbaijan Vice Premier Abid Sharifov told journalists following the
meeting that the first tankers carrying oil would leave Ceyhan in the
fourth quarter of the current year.
He said that the security of the BTC pipeline was to be guaranteed by
the governments of Azerbaijan, Georgia and Turkey.
4. Justice Ministry Creates Database for NGOs
Source: The Messenger, May 6, 2005
On Thursday, May 5, 2005 Ministry of Justice officials presented a new
database of Georgian NGOs. According to deputy justice minister
Konstantine Vardzelashvili, ministry officials had been collecting data
base on NGOs in all district courts of Georgia. The work on database
started on March 1 this year as a result of new legislation that
transfers responsibility for registering NGOs from the courts to the
ministry.
The new database includes information on NGOs, their activities,
founders and members. Due to the legal amendments, the time period for
NGOs registration is also shortened to 15 days instead of one month.
5. Millennium Challenge Compact to be signed in June
Source: The Messenger, May 6, 2005
Negotiations between Georgia and the United States regarding millennium
Challenge Account (mCA) funding for programs in Georgia are in final
stage. The US Congress will discuss MCA funding for Georgia in June, and
it is expected that it will approve a compact involving around USD 200
million in aid over the course of two years.
A delegation from Millennium Challenge Georgia (MCG) arrived back from
one week visit in Washington this week having presented the Millennium
Challenge Corporation (MCC), set up to oversee distribution of MCA
funds, with a set of projects aimed at boosting economic growth in
Georgia.
Speaking with the Messenger on Thursday, May 5, 2005, Millennium
Challenge Georgia CEO Lasha Shanidze said MCG expected that a compact
would be signed in June and that funding would be agreed for al four of
its proposed projects.
The first of these regards the construction of a road to
Samtskhe-Javakheti, a project that Mr. Shanidze says has a "bright
future." Following what he describes as extensive feasibility studies
and preparation, the road project "looks good."
According to 24 Saati, MCG has managed to win increased funding for the
road USD 120-125 million instead of USD 100 million, so as to pay for
the restoration of 310 km rather that the initially planned 250 km.
Mr. Shanidze is also positive about the creation of a Georgia
development Fund to support the development of tourism and agriculture,
and an Infrastructure development Fund to support the development of
infrastructure in the regions.
Nothing that while some similar funds in the past have been successful,
others have not, Mr. Shanidze underlined that a lot of work had been put
in regarding how the two funds would work.
The fourth project concerns rehabilitation of the energy sector in the
country. It was originally envisaged that funds would be sought to
repair hydroelectric stations and regulate consumption.
But as Mr. Shanidze stated it was recently decided to apply for
Millennium Challenge funding to pay for the repair wok needed on the
trunk gas pipeline which the government said earlier this year would be
privatized, possibly to Russian energy giant Gazprom.
MCA funding would provide an alternative to having to privatize the
pipeline, an issue that has generate a great deal of controversy,
leading several US officials including Ambassador Richard Miles to
intervene to say the Georgian government should not privatize the
pipeline.
Not to do so meat finding an alternative source of funding for the
pipeline, and it was for this reason that MCG approached the MCC with
the idea. Changing the application for funding at such a late stage in
the negotiating process was "dangerous", Mr. Shanidze admits. "But we
managed to convince the American side of the economic and political
importance of the gas pipeline," he says.
6. Transparency Missing from MCG Says NGO
Source: The Messenger, May 6, 2005
Millennium Challenge Georgia says its activities are fully transparent,
accepts recommendation to make information about transaction public
The Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) and Millennium Challenge
Georgia (MCG) have been accused of refusing to enter into dialogue with
civil society and of reaching decisions at closed door meetings that
lack transparency and accountability.
In a press released issued on Wednesday May 4, 2005 NGO Transparency
International Georgia (TI) said that "civil society's attempts to
coordinate in a substantive way with the MCC and MCG have largely been
rejected."
Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, TI Georgia Chair Mark
Mullen said that the decision "not to have substantive dialogue with
civil society is unfortunate, and dangerous."
He added that the lack of transparency in reaching decisions regarding
aid to Georgia from the Millennium Challenge Account was particularly
worrying given "the sad history of misuse of public funs in Georgia."
Mark Mullen stressed that TI Georgia was "very, very supportive of the
Millennium Challenge process," which he described as a "revolutionary
way to deliver assistance. We believe it will be one of the great
legacies of the Bush administration," he added.
But he said that because the Millennium Challenge Account (MCA) was so
new - it was set up in 2004 - there was a need to focus on the process
of delivering aid as to ensure its transparency, which would in turn
guarantee that the funds wee well spent.
This required dialogue with civic institutions, he said "But we have
tried to enter into dialogue with both MCC Washington and Millennium
Challenge Georgia, yet so far our efforts have been rejected."
While generally for mechanism to be put in place to ensure transparency
and accountability, TI Georgia has proposed the specific recommendation
that information regarding financial transactions be made public within
24 hours. Such information should give details regarding the "date,
amount and currency of payment; legal name and country of the recipient;
and a short description of what the payment is for."
This would "allow the Georgian people to directly oversee the funding
process and examine who exactly is benefiting from these funds. It is
important for statements to include a detailed recording of the
expenditure of MCG funds in order to ensure that journalists or civic
organizations can track potential conflicts of interest," the chair of
TI Georgia stated.
Mr. Mullen said that the NGO has sent this recommendation to both the
MCC and MCG but "we have yet to receive a response from either."
In an interview with The messenger, however, MCG CEO Lasha Shanidze said
that MCG had already agreed to make such information pubic according to
the guidelines set out by TI. "The recommendation is absolutely
acceptable to us," he said, adding that "we are advocates of
transparency and are fully aware that mechanisms need to be put in [lace
to ensure transparency."
Mr. Shanidze admitted that MCG had been slow to respond to TI's letter
recommending the guidelines, largely because he was in Washington at the
time negotiating with representatives of the Millennium Challenge
Account.
But he said that full information regarding any agreement reached with
the MCC, and any transaction between the two, would be made available on
an MCG website.
The CEO of MCG roundly rejected TI charged that the organization has
avoided substantive dialogue with civic society.
He said that MCG had "dialogue with civil; society and business from the
very earliest stage of consultations. We worked very hard to communicate
with everybody," he said.
TI's Mark Mullen, however, says that MCG was "too careful in selecting
which organizations could take part in discussions, leaving itself open
to the charge of wanting to tightly control the process and
information."
Mr. Shanidze, however, says that MCG entered substantial dialogue when
putting together its proposals for funding, and assures that it will
provide full information regarding any agreement once a compact has been
signed between MCG and the MCC.
During the "very delicate negotiation process," however, he said it was
very difficult to make public announcements. "Saying something which
might change could damage Georgia," he stressed. "What can we say when
there has been decision?"
7. Civil Society Calls for More Tras3epracy in Millennium
Challenge Program
Source: The Messenger, May 9, 2005
Although the US government has not still approved a large paid package
to Georgia through its new millennium Challenge Account Program, civil
society already express concern about how funds will be spent from this
account.
Last week NGO Transparency International Georgia (TI) put out a
statement to accuse the millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) in
Washington and Millennium Challenge Georgia (MCG) of apparent reluctance
to coordinate with civil society.
"Civil Society's attempts to coordinate in a substantive way with the
MCC and MCG have largely been rejected. Instead, MCC and MCG have
favored closed door meetings that have achieved little other than to say
that they have happened," the press release goes.
Convening a special press conference last week Mark Mullen. Head of
Transparency International Georgia said that "both the recipient country
and donor government have the incentives and ability to keep the
information about these funds between themselves . The impression I have
is that MCG has been careful in selecting the organizations and
participants at the meeting rather than allowing civil society to choose
who and how they will participate. MCG themselves try to strategically
select the participants of the meeting leaving itself open to the charge
of wanting to tightly control the process and information."
Serving as head of NDI Georgia for many years (before moving to TI) Mark
Mullen is the person who knows too many cases ho aid funds had
disappeared in the corruption rampant Georgia. To avoid more cases of
malpractice, Mark Mullen recommends the MCG to put in place more
mechanisms to ensure transparency and accountability.
According to the TI recommendation, MCG should make publicity available
within 24 hours payment the following information for all financial
transactions: date, amount, and currency payment; legal name and country
of the recipient and a short description of what the payment is for.
Criticism of MCG was also voiced by other representatives of civil
society who were also present at the press conference.
"MCG is a fund founded by the government. Like in many other cases where
finances are involved the government here again tries to withhold
information about what is happening inside," Tina Khidasheli from Open
Society - Georgia Foundation said.
However, Eka Zguladze, Public Outreach Coordinator, dismissed criticism
MCG has never refused to dialogue with NGOs.
"mcg had dialogue with civil society and business from the very
earliest stage of consultations. We work very hard to communicate with
civil society and are ready to take into consideration the
recommendation of civil society," she told GT.
Georgia is now near the top of the candidate list for the alternative US
aid program - the millennium Challenge Account --- is likely this summer
to sign a compact for up to $200 million aimed at infrastructure
improvements.
Georgia's proposal includes a road project to connect the isolated
southern Akhalkalaki region with the rest of Georgia. The project is
designed to open the region for the development as well as facilitate
trade ruts between Turkey and Armenia.
Another project would use MCG funds to rehabilitate the north south gas
pipeline from Russia. The Government of Georgia earlier this year had
discussed selling the pipeline to Russia's state company Gazprom. But
now government committed to refurbishing the crucial pipeline itself
with the help of the US program. Georgia is also proposing the use a
portion of the MCG funds to provide equity capital for investments in
agriculture and tourism in the country's rural regions.
8. Journalists Trained in Environmental and Energy Issues
Source: The Messenger, May 10, 2005
Two British trainers are conducting a training seminar on environmental
and energy issues with students of GIPA's Caucasus School of Journalism
and Media Management (GSJMM) on May 8-13, 2005 in Tbilisi.
The purpose of the seminar will be to teach twenty three postgraduate
journalism students (from Georgia, Azerbaijan, and Armenia) reporting
techniques on how to effectively cover environmental, energy and utility
subjects and to apply them professionally in the work place throughout
the Caucasus. Public awareness of these important issues would then be
raised.
In a press release the British Embassy said the BBC trainers also
conducted a one day workshop funded by the embassy for a mixed group of
journalists and students from the Department of Journalism at Tbilisi
State University on May 7, 2005.
9. SOS!!! --- Save the Shikahogh Reserve
The Armenian Office of the Caucasus Programme of World Wide Fund for
Nature (WWF) appeals to all the interested organizations for assistance
to preventing the Government of Armenia from realizing the project of
constructing a highway cutting through Shikahogh Reserve.
This project is designed by "Transproject" Company under the authority
of the Ministry of Transport and Communication of Republic of Armenia.
This project is a pure example of anti-environmental approach. In case
of the realization of the project at least 30 ha of the reserve's
territory will be destroyed, over 14,000 oak trees will be cut down,
which will cause deforestation of the unique and the only remained
virgin oak forest in Armenia and correspondingly it will lead to the
extermination of many species inhabiting there. It should be mentioned
that there are many endangered species of plants and animals in the
reserve, including endemic ones. The populations of animals' species
included in IUCN Red Data List, as such leopard, bezoar goat, mouflon,
will be under a great threat.
The environmental consequences on realization of the project will be as
follows:
1.. Habitats loss of many rare and endangered species of plants and
animals;
2.. Pollution of the environment bordering to the highway territories;
3.. Free movement of poachers;
4.. Extermination of the only survived population of the leopard in
Armenia;
5.. Extermination of many other endangered species of animals and
plants;
6.. Fragmentation and degradation of the habitats.
It should be also noted the project will be carried out, such
international conventions as "Convention on Biodiversity", Rio-de
Janeiro, 1992, (Ratifited 31.03.1993); "UN Framework Convention on
Climate Change", New-York, 1992, (Ratified 29.03.1993); "Convention on
Combat Desertification" Paris, 1994, (Ratified 23.06.1997); "Convention
on Access to Information, Public Participation in Decision-making and to
Justice in Environmental Matters", Orchus, 1998, (Ratified 14.05.2001)
ratified by the Armenian Government will be violated.
Meantime the Legislation of Republic of Armenia (RA) will be violated as
well, in particular: Low of RA on "Specially protected natural areas";
Low of RA on "Flora"; Low of RA on "Fauna"; Forest Code` of RA; Low of
RA on "Examination of influence on environment".
The Governmental officials persist that the highway has a strategic
importance, but none of them can explain why they have chosen the way
through the reserve. In our opinion, the Government can introduce
changes in the project, avoiding the reserve and taking an alternative
way, as it has been suggested by WWF and other organizations.
In case the Government doesn't take into consideration the alternative
way we can make a conclusion that the highway through Shikahogh reserve
is not for strategic aims, but for getting oak timber from the
reserve!!!
Different environmental NGOs have already expressed their readiness to
promote actions against the construction of the highway through the
reserve.
We suppose that assistance of influential international organizations
collaborating with Armenian Government will allow achieving a positive
decision on the alternative part of the highway excluding the reserve.
We would like to inform all stakeholders that the machinery for highway
construction has been already brought to Tsav Village near the reserve
and the construction of the highway from the other side of the Meghri
mountain ridge has been already started without any public discussions.
We are looking forward to your kind assistance,
Dr. Karen Manvelyan
National Director
Armenian Office of Caucasus Programme
World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF)
10. Europe and North Asia Forest Law Enforcement and Governance
(ENA FLEG) Ministerial Process
Local and National Civil Society Participation in ENA FLEG PrepConf[1]
June 6-8, 2005, Moscow, Russia
Self-Selection Process
Background: The Europe and North Asia Forest Law Enforcement and
Governance (ENA FLEG) ministerial process aims to mobilize international
commitment from producer, consumer and donor governments to increase
efforts to combat illegal logging as well as the associated trade and
corruption in the forest sector. The ENA FLEG aims to create the
political space at national and regional levels to address these complex
and politically sensitive issues more concertedly in the future and in
partnership with major stakeholders from civil society and the private
sector. Specifically, the FLEG process recognizes the need for joint
efforts and shared responsibility of wood products producing countries,
consuming countries, civil society (especially private sector and NGOs)
and donors.
ENA FLEG Preparatory Conference: The ENA-FLEG Ministerial Conference
will be preceded by a Preparatory Conference (PrepConf) on June 6-8,
2005. The PrepConf is the first event in which many governments and
stakeholders become actively engaged in the ENA FLEG process. The
objectives of the PrepConf are (a) knowledge sharing of FLEG experience
in ENA and globally; (b) confirming political commitment to the FLEG
process and associated activities; and (c) the initiation of discussions
that will lead to an ENA FLEG Declaration and Indicative Action Plan.
More information on the ENA FLEG process and the PrepConf can be found
at www.worldbank.org/forests
Selecting Civil Society Representatives for the ENA FLEG Preparatory
Conference: The International Steering Committee[2] (ISC) of the
ENA-FLEG Ministerial Conference recognizes the need for informed broad
stakeholder engagement and civil society participation in the ENA FLEG
process, including during the early stages leading up to the first
Preparatory Conference (PrepConf).
The International Steering Committee of the ENA FLEG Process has asked
IUCN to organize of a self selection process to identify 15 local and
national civil society representatives to participate in the ENA FLEG
Preparatory Conference (PrepConf), to be held in Moscow on June 6-8,
2005. The organization of the self-selection process is outlined in the
following pages.
A separate process will be undertaken by the World Bank to select
international NGOs (for further information, please see
www.worldbank.org/
ENA FLEG Local / National NGO Self-Selection Process
A. Allocation of Slots: Participation by local and national
civil society organizations from the ENA-FLEG area will be limited to 15
representatives, as outlined by the ISC at its first meeting in February
2005. There 15 will be identified in a self-selection process organized
by IUCN. In addition to a broad geographic coverage, these 15 should
have a broad mix of experience, not only on illegal logging but on
related issues such as nature protection and on social aspects.
IUCN will notify the ENA FLEG ISC of the outcomes of the self-selection
process. The World Bank, co-host of the ENA FLEG PrepConf with the
Russian Ministry of Natural Resources, will cover the costs of travel,
accommodation and participation to the conference selected civil society
representatives, based on need.
Based on the recommendations of the ISC, it has been suggested that the
15 slots be allocated as follows:
Russia, Central Asia and Caucasus (5)
· 3 Russia (Western, Far East and one other)
· 1 Central Asia (one of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan,
Turkmenistan, or Uzbekistan)
· 1 Caucasus (one of Armenia, Azerbaijan, or Georgia)
China (2)
· 2 China
Mongolia, Japan (2)
· 1 Mongolia
· 1 Japan
Central and Eastern Europe (2)
· 2 Central and Eastern Europe
Western and Southern Europe
· 1 Western Europe (local NGO, CBO or IPO)
· 1 Southern Europe (local NGO, CBO or IPO)
Indigenous peoples and ethnic minorities (2)
· 2 indigenous peoples and ethnic minorities (though could be
additional representation through country and regional slots)
B. Selection Criteria: Adopted from the recommendations of the
International Steering Committee, participants should generally meet the
following criteria:
General criteria
· The civil society group has to be local or national.
· At least 7 places will be reserved for female
representatives.
· At least two places will be reserved for representatives of
indigenous peoples.
Representative (Individual) Criteria
· Has experience of high relevance to the ENA FLEG process.
· Has knowledge of and practical experience of lobbying at the
local, national, regional and/or international level.
· Has demonstrated a high degree of interest in the ENA-FLEG
process so far.
· Will be present for and actively participating in the entire
PrepConf and pre-meeting
· Is able and willing to make a firm commitment to personally:
a.. Coordinate with other civil society groups in advance of and
during the PrepConf including participating in daily civil society
"delegation" meetings and ensuring that all key sessions are covered
b.. Represent the wider civil society community at the PrepConf,
rather than just the interests of his/her own organization
c.. Personally contact key government representatives before the
PrepConf meeting to pass on civil society recommendations and/or
participate in awareness raising missions with the project coordinators
(though of course not if this could affect personal security)
· Able and willing to prepare fully for the PrepConf,
including:
a.. Review the outcomes of all of the preparatory workshops and
analysis
b.. Comment on civil society positions and coordinate with other
representatives in the weeks leading up to the PrepConf.
c.. Review all of the official materials for the PrepConf.
d.. Contribute to developing and implementing a strategy for
advocating civil society positions in advance of and during the
PrepConf.
Organization Criteria
· Demonstrates a capacity and experience in representing a
range of views and in two-way communication with the civil society
groups and stakeholders they represent. This could also include
compiling comments from other organizations and disseminating /
presenting them without allowing their own-bias to interfere.
· Demonstrates a high degree of interest and engagement in the
ENA-FLEG process so far
· Willing to make a firm commitment to coordinate with other
civil society groups in advance of and during the PrepConf
· Has a good geographical spread (i.e. good representation of
interests in one or more relevant regions)
· Committed to disseminating information to other civil
society groups during and after the PrepConf, including reporting on the
outcomes of the meeting
· Has established informal or formal partnerships with other
civil society groups in their region or country
· Has solid experience and capacity for networking with civil
society and other key actors.
C. Structure and Timeline of Self-Selection Process: The following steps
will be followed for the self-selection process:
1. Dissemination of information and application form /
questionnaire (May 5): IUCN offices in 6 countries[3] will have the
primary responsibility to distribute the information about the
self-selection process to as many civil society organizations as
possible. Other IUCN members in the ENA-FLEG region (there are more than
50) will also be encouraged to disseminate the information. Information
will also be sent through the mailing lists of the Taiga Rescue Network
and other networks active in the region.
2. Application process (deadline May 10): Those interested in
participating will be invited to fill out the application form /
questionnaire attached to this document and return it by May 13, 2005 to
the IUCN office in their country or region. In addition, all those
interested civil society groups (including those who are not nominating
themselves) will be given a chance to identify their 1st and 2nd choices
3. Evaluation of applications / questionnaires (May 10-11): The
IUCN offices will apply the criteria, take account of the designated 1st
and 2nd choices and make recommendations for the allocation of slots in
their country or region. These will be tabulated and an overall list of
recommendations will be produced.
4. Preliminary list of recommendations sent to civil society
groups for comment (May 11) The results will be distributed to all
interested local and national civil society groups for comment.
5. Comments on preliminary list (deadline May 15)
6. Revision of list of recommendations if necessary (May 16-17):
The recommendation will be revised and redistributed for further comment
if there is significant agreement among the civil society groups on any
changes that may be required
7. Submission of List to ENA FLEG ISC (May 18): A final list will
be compiled and will be transmitted to the International Steering
Committee and World Bank. The World Bank will begin to process
invitations and visa applications.
D. IUCN and World Bank Contacts: Please contact the following
IUCN contacts if you have had any specific questions about the
self-selection process. Other queries on the ENA FLEG process can be
sent to [email protected]
Russia, Central Asia and Caucasus
Victor Teplyakov, IUCN Russia and CIS office in Moscow
[email protected]
China
Seth Cook, IUCN Country Office in China
[email protected]
Mongolia, Japan
Guido Broekhoven, IUCN Regional Office for Asia in Bangkok
[email protected]
Central and Eastern Europe
Zenon Tederko
IUCN Office for Central end Eastern Europe in Warsaw
[email protected]
or
Jörg Lohmann, IUCN South-Eastern Europe Office in Belgrade
[email protected]
Tel: +381 11 2272 259
Western and Southern Europe
Caroline Nienhuis, IUCN Regional Office for Europe
[email protected]
Tel. +32 2 732 82 99 / +32 2 739 3006 (direct); Fax: +32 2 732 94 99
Indigenous peoples and ethnic minorities
Contact most relevant IUCN office from above.
11. 5th International Fundraising Workshop, 28 - 31st May 2005,
Yalta, Crimea, Ukraine
Will be held from 28th - 31st May 2005 in Yalta, Crimea, Ukraine.
The 3-day workshop on resource mobilization for the post Soviet & East
Europe region will be organized by the Center for Philanthropy from
Ukraine in partnership with the Resource Alliance.
The Workshop will gather non-profit executives from all over the region
to find new and meaningful ways of mobilizing local communities to
create a greater social impact.
It will enable participants to develop cutting edge skills and knowledge
in various resource mobilization methods such as leadership, strategic
planning, communications and developing relations with potential and
existing donors.
More than just a means of imparting new skills or knowledge, the
Workshop will offer participants the opportunity to meet and exchange
ideas in a highly interactive and collaborative environment, turning
their experiences into raw materials for new learning.
To view the Workshop programme please click here:
http://www.resource-alliance.org/page.php?sectionid=3D6&subsectionid=3D19&p ageid=3D552
12. Announcement -- Guria Youth Resource Center
Guria Youth Resource Center which is located in the south-west corner of
Georgia, near the Black Sea Coast is created to promote active
citizenship to ultimately achieve the civil society.
Since its establishment in 2002, the Center has served more then 4000
disadvantaged youth. Through series of human rights trainings, technical
courses and community service projects.
The founders have 14 years of experience in the non-profit sector. One
of the five founders of the organization is a US Peace Corps Volunteer.
The organization implements its activities throughout the Region.
Guria Youth Resource Center has new Web site: gyrc.org.ge
Web-site has been developed under the framework of the project
"Democracy Must Be Learnt By Each Generation" implemented by the Guria
Youth Resource Center and funded by the US Embassy in Georgia.
13. EIA Reports
Source: "Sakartvelos Respublica" ("Republic of Georgia"), May 6, 2005
In accordance with the Georgian legislation, community association
"Ninotsminda" Ltd. submitted EIA report to the Ministry of Environment
of Georgia to obtain an environmental permit for the activity of second
category - Project on Spasovki Hydroelectric station on river
Bugdasheni Ninotsminda Region.
In accordance with the Georgian legislation, community association
"Dzama" Ltd. submitted EIA report to the Ministry of Environment of
Georgia to obtain an environmental permit for the activity of second
category - Project on Gas Supply of the Villages Kekhi Jvari, Sanebeli
and Vedreba in Kareli Region.
In accordance with the Georgian legislation, "Mtsi Artsivi" Ltd.
submitted EIA report to the Ministry of Environment of Georgia to obtain
an environmental permit for the activity of second category - Processing
of the Spasovki Vulcan Deposit in Ninotsminda Region.
In accordance with the Georgian legislation, "Klein Georgia" Ltd.
submitted EIA report to the Ministry of Environment of Georgia to obtain
an environmental permit for the activity of second category -Development
of the Inert Materials ion the River Natanebi and Supsa.
EIA reports are available at the Department of Environmental Permits and
State Ecological Expertise (6 Gulua Str.). Interested stakeholders can
analyze the document and present their comments and considerations until
June 21, 2005.
Public hearing will be held on June 21, 2005 at 12:00, at the conference
hall of the Ministry of Environment.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[1] Financially supported by the Governments of Canada and Germany.
[2] The ENA FLEG International Steering Committee is composed of the
governments of Bulgaria, Canada, Finland, Germany, Japan, Kazakhstan,
Russia, Poland, Turkey, United Kingdom, and the United States, as well
as the World Bank and the European Commission.
§ IUCN Regional Office for Europe in Brussels; IUCN Office for
Russia and CIS, including Central Asia in Moscow; IUCN Office for
Central end Eastern Europe in Warsaw; IUCN South-Eastern Europe Office
in Belgrade; IUCN Regional Office for Asia in Bangkok; IUCN Country
Office in China
*******************************************
CENN INFO
Caucasus Environmental NGO Network (CENN)
Tel: ++995 32 75 19 03/04
Fax: ++995 32 75 19 05
E-mail: [email protected]
URL: www.cenn.org