Major Groups and other stakeholders

An inclusive foundation

From its inception, the United Nations Forum on Forests (UNFF) was created as an open, transparent and participatory body. Building on the report of the fourth session of the Intergovernmental Forum on Forests, the Forum was mandated to involve international and regional organisations, institutions, and the nine major groups identified in Agenda 21. This ensured key stakeholders would have a seat at the table in shaping the global forest agenda.

Women
Children and youth
Indigenous peoples
Non-governmental organisations (NGOs)
Local authorities
Workers and trade unions
Business and industry
Scientific and technological community
Farmers

Policy dialogue and participation

Major groups are not passive observers — they are active contributors to policy development and international dialogue. The Forum provides structured opportunities for them to share knowledge, voice priorities, and engage directly with governments, including through multi-stakeholder dialogues. These exchanges bring perspectives from the ground to the highest levels of forest policymaking.

Expanding the partnership

The importance of major groups was reaffirmed in the international arrangement on forests beyond 2015. This decision recognised them as essential partners alongside governments and international organisations and stressed the need for their active participation in both UNFF sessions and intersessional work.

Role in the UNSPF

The United Nations Strategic Plan for Forests 2017–2030 went further, highlighting that the success of sustainable forest management depends on the contributions of all stakeholders. Forest owners, indigenous peoples, local communities, women, youth, non-governmental organisations, the private sector, academia, and philanthropic foundations all have critical roles to play in advancing the Global Forest Goals.

Driving progress

Through their engagement, major groups bring expertise, innovation and practical solutions that strengthen the work of the Forum. Their voices help ensure that global forest policy reflects the realities on the ground, while supporting progress towards the Global Forest Goals and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.