Cross-Body Technical Focal Points
The following Terms of Reference refer to the role of Technical Focal Point defined in Annex IV of the Rules of Procedure for technical commissions (WMO-No.1240)
Specific description of the functions of an expert selected from the membership of an originating subsidiary body to serve as a Technical Focal Point on behalf of the originating body in the expert composition of another specified body:
- Represents the originating subsidiary body on the specified other body, including attending meetings* of the other body if required
- Provides expert advice and facilitates collaboration between the two bodies to ensure that the activities of the two bodies are complimentary and that duplication is avoided
- Coordinates originating body contributions to the work of the specified other body
- Arranges for the review and feedback by the originating body of materials of common thematic interest developed by the specified other body
- Provides regular updates/briefings to the Chair of the originating body on progress, challenges and any issues requiring escalation to the leadership of the technical commissions and/or Research Board
(*) It is the responsibility of the inviting body to provide supporting funding if a Focal Point is invited to attend an in-person meeting
Process for the designation of cross-body Technical Focal Points:
- The Officers of each technical commission, in consultation with the Chairs of their respective Standing Committees and as necessary Study Groups and Advisory Groups, to review the Terms of Reference of the subsidiary bodies of both technical commissions, to identify those subsidiary bodies with potential common/complementary thematic interests and shared expertise for which cross-body Focal Points could be designated
- Proposals for the designation of cross-body Focal Point positions to be discussed and agreed as necessary between the presidents of the technical commissions and then presented for endorsement to the respective Management Groups
- Focal Points to be selected (normal selection and notification criteria and processes apply) by the originating subsidiary body and then communicated to the specified other body
- Specific description of functions (defined above) and the common thematic interests of the two bodies to be shared with the Focal Point to ensure clear understanding and expectations.