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A fundamental component in the GEF strategy is the Regional Thematic Centre (RTCs), a concept tested in the Black Sea Environmental Program but originally developed in UNEP projects, notably the Mediterranean Action Plan. The Regional Thematic Centres are a mechanism by which countries agree to share specific co-ordinating roles employing institutions which already exist and can be sustainably financed by national governments using their own resources. Each RTC has its own network of technical focal points within which components of the program are realised and information is exchanged freely, usually by electronic means, and without outside interference. The scheme avoids the unnecessary transfer of currency from country to country and provides a means of providing counterpart funding for the project.
Structure of thematic center
Main Tasks of the RTCs:
- to co-ordinate the specialist technical inputs required for developing the Transboundary Diagnostic Analysis, the Strategic Action Programme;
- to develop and implement mechanisms for assessing the environment and preparing regular state of the environment reports;
- to develop cost effective measures and strategies for implementing the SAP;
- to develop mechanisms for ensuring the longer-term sustainability of the Dnipro Basin institutional network.
In the framework of the UNDP-GEF Program of Dnipro Basin Rehabilitation, 6 Regional Thematic Centres will be established:
In Ukraine:
- Pollution Monitoring RTC
- Information Management RTC
In Belarus:
- Pollution Prevention and Control RTC
- Clean Production RTC
In Russian Federation:
- Biodiversity RTC
- Legal, Regulatory and Economic Issues RTC
In order to manage effectively the RTCs activity, elaboration of Strategic Action Plan and National Programs, 6 Expert Working Groups, involving local and foreign specialists will be created accordingly to the topics, chosen for RTCs.
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