Target countries: Global
Lead members: FAO and UNFFS
Contributing members: Supported by all CPF members
Timeframe: 2025-2028 (continuous)
Contributions to forest-related goals: GFGs 3, 4, 6, and SDGs 11, 12, 13, and 15
External partners: Regional Forest Communicators Networks
The objectives of the CPF Communicators’ Network are to enhance advocacy and coordinated outreach among CPF members on the multiple benefits of forests and trees and to support implementation of the UNSPF’s Communication and Outreach Strategy. Supported by FAO’s Regional Communicators’ Networks, the CPF Communicators’ Network ensures effective coordination among CPF members, provides strategic advice to the CPF on communication and outreach, including participation in global events, supporting the development of related initiatives and products, such as the International Day of Forests, the Wangari Maathai Forest Champions Award, and Grow the Solution, implemented in partnership with the Sustainable Wood for a Sustainable World Joint Initiative. Additionally, it assists in the crafting of key messages for the High Level Political Forum (HLPF).
Cross-promote and support the development of CPF and its members’ materials and provide outreach support to relevant joint initiatives, events and publications, including through joint CPF branding, news items, and social media.
Provide substantive support for the International Day of Forests (IDF), including deciding themes for the 2026–2028 celebrations, announcing them at the relevant sessions of the UNFF, planning joint events, and supporting the development and dissemination of coordinated outreach products by the IDF lead agencies, FAO and its Regional Forest Communicators Networks, and the UNFF.
For the flagship initiative “ Grow the Solution”, the CPF Communicators’ Network will (subject to funding) raise visibility through the development of a video and global social media campaign in six languages ahead of UNFCCC COP30 and other major events; create a dedicated multilingual platform (toolkit); design multilingual and multimedia campaign assets; map and convene national-level stakeholders to conduct preliminary work for the implementation of national campaigns in two selected countries; design and implement national public awareness campaigns in two selected countries; and disseminate tools, resources (including national campaign assets) and lessons learned to encourage regional adaptation of the campaign.
The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed 21 March the International Day of Forests (IDF) in 2012. The Day celebrates and raises awareness of the importance of all types of forests. On each International Day of Forests, countries are encouraged to undertake local, national and international efforts to organize activities involving forests and trees, such as tree planting campaigns. The theme for each International Day of Forests is chosen by the Collaborative Partnership on Forests.
Increased awareness of the multiple benefits that forests and trees provide.
