Improving coordination and complementarity of UNCED follow-up programmes in the United Nations system

This strategy features in the framework of Agenda 21 as formulated at UNCED (Rio de Janeiro, 1992), now coordinated by the United Nations Commission on Sustainable Development and implemented through national and local authorities.

Agenda 21 indicates that in the follow-up to UNCED, in particular implementation of Agenda 21, all relevant organs, programmes and organizations of the UN system will have an important role within their respective areas of expertise and mandates in supporting and supplementing national efforts. Coordination and mutual complementarity of their efforts to promote integration of environment and development could be enhanced through encouraging countries to maintain consistent positions in the various governing bodies. Specifically, Agenda 21 recommends strengthening the role of UNEP and UNDP, the latter ensuring immediate follow-up.