Coming to life – FoRISK begins its work with approved working modalities framework

The endorsement of the Bonn Ministerial Decision by the Forest Europe Ministers at the 9^th Forest Europe Ministerial Conference marked the beginning of the Forest Risk Facility (FoRISK), hosted by the European Forest Institute, Bonn. Three months into its establishment, the Secretariat is working towards making FoRISK a key platform for knowledge exchange as well as sharing science-based information and promoting cross-sectoral networking among regional, national and international actors. These aims will be achieved through working with Forest Europe’s signatories across the pan-European borders, practitioners and experts to address issues like droughts and wildfires, storms and pests & diseases.

Ms Silvia Abruscato, Coordinator of FoRISK. Photo credits: Elettra Gallone, FSC Italy.- FoRISK aim to be a reliable knowledge hub fostering cooperation in disaster risk management. We need your visions, experiences and support in reaching it jointly for more resilient forests and forest sectors, says Ms Silvia Abruscato, Coordinator of FoRISK.

Working modalities framework approved

The FoRISK working modalities framework, developed over the last months, was approved at the recently concluded Expert Level Meeting, giving the formal green light to the facility.

The top priorities for the FoRISK Secretariat include the development of FoRISK governance rules in detail, as well as the work programme development, and engaging with other relevant actors. These activities will be further discussed in the upcoming first kick off meeting for the Steering Committee be held on 28 April 2025 from 13-15:00 (Berlin time) in a hybrid format. FoRISK Coordinator Ms Silvia Abruscato invited members to provide financial support and in-kind contribution to ensure inclusion and the successful work of the secretariat through a greater impact. The outcomes of the discussions at the kick off meeting will be shared with all.

Please stay tuned for the launch of the FoRISK Website on 28 April 2025. The website will provide information about FoRISK activities, library of best practices, events and relevant information from member states.