Consultative Process on Scientific Advice
Joint FAO/WHO Workshop on Provision of Scientific Advice to Codex and Member States, 27-29 January 2004, Geneva, Switzerland
Workshop report
More information about the consultative process is available on the FAO/WHO website at http://www.fao.org/es/esn/proscad/index_en.stm. The background papers and all comments received during the e-forum, along with a report of the proceedings, are posted on this website. The site will be updated throughout the consultative process to provide information on progress and activities.
Background
- The consultative process involves thre main issues: - an electronic discussion forum (1 Oct - 14 Nov 2003) - an international workshop (27 - 29 Jan 2004) - an expert consultation (May/June 2004)
- FAO and WHO organized the e-forum to promote discussion among a broad range of interested parties, as part of a consultative process to consider the provision of scientific advice to Codex and how the processes involved may be improved. The purpose of the e-forum was to encourage an open interactive exchange of views and ideas which will be considered in the next steps during the consultative process. Input was invited from all stakeholders, including but not limited to, those representing government regulators, academia and science, the food industry and consumer organizations.
- Participants were invited to consider and discuss a series of short background papers covering key issues in the provision of scientific advice to Codex and provide comments, suggestions and recommendations. The e-forum was open from 1 October-14 November 2003. The output of the forum will be considered at a FAO/WHO Workshop in January 2004.
- The backgound papers have been grouped in clusters of related subject areas. The 10 background papers are posted on the FAO/WHO website (see link below).
Cluster 1 (general issues) Paper 1.a. Scientific advice provided by FAO/WHO Paper 1.b. Basic principles underlying the provision of scientific advice Paper 1.c. Enhancing communication in providing scientific advice Cluster 2 (transparency) Paper 2.a. Legal arrangements for the provision of scientific advice Paper 2.b. Ensuring the transparency of the process Paper 2.c. Selection of experts to avail of best available expertise Cluster 3 (process and content) Paper 3.a. Providing a flexible management system for provision of scientific advice Paper 3.b. Working procedures based on best practices to produce scientific advice Paper 3.c. Accessing best data and ensuring effective management Paper 3.d. Enhancing the role of developing countries in the development of scientific advice