https://www.cbd.int/article/2025-08-26-FERI-global-worshop-Seoul
Hosted by the Korea Forest Service and convened by the CBD Secretariat, the three-day workshop will see a stocktaking and forward-looking exercise centred around a decade of FERI achievements around the globe.
Since its inception, FERI has underpinned countries’ efforts to develop and implement restoration projects, strengthening capacity, promoting South–South cooperation, and mobilizing knowledge and best practices. The initiative also supported the development of the “Target 2 Roadmap” helping countries to monitor and report on restoration under the Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF).
The outcomes of the global workshop will feed into a soon-to-be-signed memorandum of understanding extending cooperation between the Korea Forest Service and the CBD Secretariat until 2030. This extension will allow for the delivery of the third phase of FERI in support of the implementation of the KMGBF. In addition to Target 2, the third phase of FERI will underpin the implementation of Target 1, Target 3, Target 10, Target 11, and Target 22 of the Global Biodiversity Framework.
“The Republic of Korea has the experience of successfully restoring its war-devastated forests, creating a model that has drawn global attention,” said H.E. Dr In-ho Kim, Minister of Korea Forest Service in his opening address. “As a Party to the CBD, Korea is firmly committed to conserving and managing at least 30 per cent of its terrestrial territory by 2030.”
Over the last decade FERI has established itself as an important piece of the mosaic of actions that support the implementation of the Global Biodiversity Framework and serve the aims of the United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration. The initiative has included activities implemented by indigenous peoples and local communities and demonstrated how forest restoration contributes to creating jobs and improving livelihoods.
Speaking on behalf of the CBD Executive Secretary, Deputy Executive Secretary Jihyun Lee noted that FERI will continue to play a crucial role in advancing progress towards the implementation of the targets of the Global Biodiversity Framework by 2030. “Through the vision, leadership, and tireless dedication of the Korea Forest Service, FERI has become a flagship example of international cooperation in practice,” Ms. Lee remarked.
This week in Seoul participants in the workshop will share experiences, showcase best practices, and identify opportunities for enhanced cooperation in support of forest ecosystem restoration. Thanks to the generous support of the Republic of Korea, the third phase of FERI will build on a lush forest of achievements to bring the world closer to peace with nature.
