Keeping FOREST EUROPE fit for the future

Workstream 2 aims to keep FOREST EUROPE fit for the future. One of its initiatives reached an important milestone in connection with the Ministerial Conference in early June, when a new funding model was adopted.

A new funding model for a stronger FOREST EUROPE

Starting in 2025, the lead country bears the costs, supplemented by voluntary contributions from signatories. The new FOREST EUROPE funding model aims to ensure long-term financial stability through predictable voluntary contributions from Signatories and other sources. While maintaining the voluntary nature of funding, it strengthens political commitment to support the process. The model introduces two contribution levels: a Standard Tier to cover essential operating costs and the core Work Programme, and a Strategic Tier for additional activities and programme implementation. Contribution levels are proposed by the Lead Country at the start of each chairmanship term and approved at an Expert Level Meeting (ELM). All Signatories are encouraged to contribute, while retaining equal rights and participation regardless of their financial contribution. Funds will continue to be managed through a Multi-Donor Trust Fund, allowing resources to be carried over between years and chairmanship terms. The model is intended as a long-term solution that promotes shared responsibility, financial predictability and continuity within FOREST EUROPE.

Please read the adopted annex to the Stockholm Ministerial Declaration here. 

Johanna From (Project Manager of Workstream 2), and Fredrik Silfwerbrand (Head of Liaison Unit Sweden) at the Stockholm Ministerial Conference, sharing the achievements of the Swedish Chairmanship.

Progress on outsourcing administrative functions

At the Expert Level Meeting (ELM) in Brussels in December 2025, it was decided to task the Liaison Unit Sweden with continuing its work in line with the agreed Roadmap for the possible outsourcing of certain administrative functions. During the spring, this work has progressed, with the identified administrative tasks being described in greater detail and the criteria for selecting a suitable organisation to take on these responsibilities being further refined.

The plan is to present, at the ELM in December, proposals for the documentation to be sent to potential organisations, as well as recommendations for the next steps in the process. Several decisions will need to be taken at an ELM along the way, as FOREST EUROPE is a political process in which consensus is essential. Further developments will follow.

Preparing for a smooth transition to the next Chairing Country

A checklist has been developed to facilitate the transition from one Chairing Country to the next. The checklist is intended to help Albania quickly feel well prepared and confident in its role as the next Chairing Country. The checklist will be presented at the next ELM.

Supporting future membership applications

Another checklist has been developed to assist interested organisations in preparing and structuring an application for membership in FOREST EUROPE. Expressions of interest are received from pan-European stakeholder organisations from time to time, often from organisations that are not yet widely known. If they meet the criteria set out in the checklist, they will be better positioned not only to contribute to FOREST EUROPE but also to increase their visibility and recognition across the pan-European region.

Together, these initiatives contribute to a stronger and more resilient FOREST EUROPE by improving financial sustainability, strengthening governance and supporting continuity between chairmanships. They also provide a solid foundation for implementing future Work Programmes and welcoming new stakeholders to the process.