Lesson 5: Steps in Developing ISPMs

Topic 1: Developing Topics for Standards

Member countries propose topics for standards during the “call for topics” period, which occurs every two years.

Objective:

  • Describe the process of developing topics for standards
The Standard Setting Process

The IPPC standard-setting process is characterized by a great amount of transparency, with opportunities for input and participation by member countries throughout each of the stages in the process. There are four stages in this process, including:

  1. Developing topics for standards
  2. Drafting standards
  3. Member consultation
  4. Adoption and publication

Fully participating in the standard-setting process gives Member countries the opportunity to influence international phytosanitary policy. The standard-setting process can take two to three years, depending on the priority given to a standard, but, in some cases, the development process is much longer.

Stage 1: Developing Topics for IPPC Standards

Stage 1

Member countries drive the process for developing and adopting topics for new standards. Every two years (usually in June or July), the IPPC Secretariat publishes a notice on the IPP website, requesting that member countries submit detailed proposals for new topics or for the revision of existing ISPMs. This process of soliciting proposals is referred to as the “Call for Topics”.

The proposed standards are reviewed and prioritized by the Strategic Planning and Technical Assistance Group (SPTA) and the Standards Committee (SC) respectively.

Core criteria for evaluating proposed topics include:

  • Contribution to the purpose of the IPPC (i.e., “common and effective action to prevent the spread and introduction of pests of plants and plant products”)
  • Clear identification of the problems that need to be resolved through development of the standard
  • Feasibility of implementation at the global level

Additional criteria may also be considered, including:

  • Technical
  • Practical
  • Economic
  • Environmental
  • Strategic

The list of proposed topics is then presented by the Secretariat to the Commission on Phytosanitary Measures (CPM) at its annual meeting. Recall that the CPM is comprised of a voting representative from each member country and other attendees. The CPM discusses the proposed topics, makes adjustments as necessary, and approves a list of prioritized topics.

Topics for standards are proposed by member countries, evaluated by the IPPC, and adopted by the Commission on Phytosanitary Measures.

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