At its 6th session, which took place on 5-9 May 2003, the United Nations Commission on Science and Technology for Development (CSTD) decided that the substantive theme and focus of its work during 2003-2004 will be "Promoting the application of science and technology to meet the Millennium Development Goals". In undertaking this theme, the CSTD will hold a panel meeting in October 2003 to examine the issues and make concrete recommendations to governments and the United Nations system. The CSTD is organising, from 15 June to 15 August 2003, four e-mail working groups to provide input into this panel meeting. The first e-mail working group focuses on the area of "Improving the policy environment for the application of science and technology to development by identifying potential risks and benefits of new and emerging technologies" (which also includes biotechnologies). Anyone can join. For further information, or to join the working group, contact [email protected].

15/06/2003