The Executive Secretary’s report is a testament to the Secretariat’s efficiency

The Executive Secretary’s report is a testament to the Secretariat’s efficiency

As IWC69 progresses, the Executive Secretary’s Report on Secretariat activities became a key focus during the Plenary session. This comprehensive report, summarising the Secretariat’s work between IWC68 in 2022 and the present meeting, was met with widespread appreciation from Commission members. It has now been confirmed that the Executive Secretary’s Report will feature as a standing agenda item at future IWC meetings, reflecting the crucial role the Secretariat plays in the Commission’s operations.

In addition to acknowledging the impressive work of the Secretariat, several countries took the opportunity to formally congratulate the newly appointed Executive Secretary, Martha Rojas Urrego, whose leadership was warmly welcomed. Delegates praised her vision for the future, while also applauding the Secretariat’s efficiency and its invaluable support for the Commission’s work during the intersessional period.

The report outlines the Secretariat’s achievements, including the successful organisation of major meetings, such as the Scientific Committee sessions with around 200 participants each and 13 technical workshops. The Secretariat’s coordination efforts received a 95% satisfaction rating from delegates, showcasing its dedication to high standards and effective service delivery.

Key operational successes included the processing of over 568 documents for the Scientific Committee meetings and the management of 109 data requests during the intersessional period. The Secretariat also oversaw the development of new databases, enhanced data management systems, and boosted outreach efforts, with over 20,000 interactions with newly published material on the IWC’s website since IWC68.

Capacity-building was another area in which the Secretariat excelled, with programmes like the Global Whale Entanglement Response Network and the Bycatch Mitigation Initiative training hundreds of new responders across multiple regions. Their media outreach efforts resulted in a 73% increase in user activity on the IWC website, alongside extensive media coverage of the IWC’s first Extinction Alert.

In addition to the well-deserved congratulations for Martha Rojas Urrego, the Commission also took a moment to express its appreciation for the work of the former Executive Secretary, Dr Rebecca Lent. Her leadership and service were recognised for laying the foundation of excellence that continues to guide the Secretariat’s efforts.

As the Executive Secretary’s Report becomes a regular feature at future IWC meetings, it is evident that the Secretariat’s dedication to transparency, efficiency, and capacity building will remain integral to the Commission’s ongoing success. The IWC69 has set a tone of optimism and collaboration, with confidence in the Secretariat’s ability to meet the challenges of the future.