Search Climate Insights Directory

The Inter-American Institute for Global Change Research (IAI) reports that its Scientific Advisory Committee (SAC) faces a critical lack of continuity due to unfilled vacancies from 2012 and the expiration of five final terms between June 2013 and 2014. This instability coincides with structural changes, including the office move to Montevideo and the opening of new offices in Buenos Aires and Brazil. To mitigate this, the IAI suggests that the 21st and 22nd Conferences of the Parties (CoP) consider exceptional measures, such as allowing members to serve beyond their final terms and limiting the number of renewals per cycle to ensure the directorate receives reliable, continuous advice.

The document outlines the evaluation process and criteria used by an ad hoc committee to assess bids from Argentina, Brazil, and Uruguay to host the IAI Directorate. It compares the three candidates across 14 criteria, including hosting experience, facilities, legal immunities, tax status, and communications infrastructure. While Brazil is the current host, the report notes significant operational challenges there, such as deteriorating internet connectivity, power outages, and disputes with tax authorities. Uruguay's proposal is noted for its comprehensive coverage and specific offers of office space and staff, while Argentina's proposal is described as lacking detail on critical legal and fiscal matters.