Governance model: a collective process that strengthens the Biodivercities Network

The mayor of Cobija is excited about the possibility of learning from the experience of other cities. 

A scientist from the Humboldt Institute proposes improvements in the definition of BiodiverCities. Whoever directs the CAF training area makes himself available to add resources to the Network. A UN Habitat specialist proposes monitoring the development of cities within the framework of global agreements. The mayor of Curridabat adds his views on the best ways to promote and manage the Network, while telling us how bees play a key role in his city. 

Everyone joins in, participates, commits, gets excited! 

During 2024, CAF promoted a collective process together with various cities in the region, aimed at strengthening the BiodiverCities Network. For this reason, a team of professionals from the bank, with the support of an international specialist in institutional development issues, discussed, consulted and harmonized various proposals to design and implement a new governance model for the Network.  

In just over 6 months of work, around 25 meetings were held with mayors, local technicians, representatives of the Humboldt Institute, UN Habitat and various CAF teams. In addition, the operation of a dozen regional networks was analyzed and a multi-stakeholder workshop was held in Bogotá with the presence of 20 representatives of member cities, experts from various areas of CAF and the technical institutions associated with the Network. And not In accordance with this rich, open and diverse process, we added voices and opinions through a survey carried out among the other member cities of the Network. No one was left out. 

Each one contributed from their place with the desire to strengthen this collective space and enhance the management of that common house under construction: our Network. 

The result of this process is the Governance Model 2024-2026 that we present today and that you can download here. The Model marks the growth path of the Network and will always be open to improvements and adjustments.  

Thank you very much for being part of the network and joining this collective construction! 

Download the network factsheet