Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are an important stakeholder group, representing civil society and advocating on behalf of environmental protection, social welfare and other matters. They may make various contributions through their experience, expertise and capacity, as an independent monitor and a source of research and information, policy development, public education and awareness-raising.
NGOs may also be represented by observers at meetings of the Stockholm Convention bodies, in accordance with the relevant provisions of the Convention and the rules of procedure. Please click here for more information on the procedure for admission of observers and a list of previously admitted observers.
One of the most prominent NGO which is actively contributing to the POP international work is the International POPs Elimination Network (IPEN), which is comprised of more than 700 public interest, non-governmental organizations in 116 countries.