Briefing Note: Building the Architecture of the UN high-level political forum (HLPF)
Strengthening the Institutional Framework for Sustainable Development (IFSD) was one of the two themes of Rio+20. The process and negotiations showed agreement on the need to strengthen IFSD. While several institutional options were discussed during Rio+20, the outcome document stronglyunderlines the importance of good governance and agreement was reached to establish a high-level political forum (HLPF) as the institution for sustainable development within the UN. The ultimate determination of the name, position within the UN hierarchy, mandate and responsibilities of the forum will signal to the world the importance given to sustainable development in global politics.
