Template Language for DSI Databases

To support the requirements for databases that provide access to Digital Sequence Information (DSI), agreed to by consensus of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)[1] listed in decision 16/2, an international scientific working group developed the following “template language”. The full paper (listed above) and this document are intended to provide practical guidance for database managers that wish to support implementation of CBD Decision 16/2. Database operators are encouraged to adapt the proposed language to align with their internal policies and applicable legal frameworks. The template language does not create, modify, or replace any legal obligations that may arise from implementation at the national level. As the CBD’s DSI multilateral mechanism and other international benefit-sharing instruments, such as the Food and Agriculture Organization’s Plant Treaty (ITPGRFA), the World Health Organization’s Pathogen ABS System (WHO PABS), and the new High Seas Treaty (BBNJ Agreement), evolve, this language may need to be revisited and updated to maintain coherence across different policy frameworks. [1] Convention on Biological Diversity. Decision 16/2 (CBD/COP/DEC/16/2). Digital sequence information on genetic resources. Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), UNEP. https://www.cbd.int/doc/decisions/cop-16/cop-16-dec-02-en.pdf (2024).