Emphasizing the unique role of Permanent Representatives
Permanent Representatives (PRs), held at WMO headquarters on 21 October, welcomed 24 participants, including 15 PRs, one director of a National Meteorological and Hydrological Service (NMHS), one Hydrological Adviser, and seven NMHS staff members. The PR induction forms part of WMO's leadership and management development programme, essential for strengthening NMHSs and their collaboration with the Organization.
WMO Secretary-General Professor Celeste Saulo opened the two-hour hybrid lunchtime meeting by emphasizing the unique role of PRs - beyond their technical responsibilities - as communicators to political leaders in their respective countries. She stressed the importance of two-way communication in bringing global priorities to national governments, in raising awareness of initiatives such as Early Warning for All, in enhancing NMHS visibility and in supporting resource mobilization.
The workshop agenda covered the WMO Convention, General Regulations, and Constituent Bodies, as well as the organizational structure, while exploring the evolving PR role. The discussions also included key service activities and capacity development mechanisms such as Climate Risk and Early Warning Systems (CREWS) initiative and the Systematic Observations Financing Facility (SOFF). The meeting also explored the establishment of a digital platform to provide PRs with easily accessible WMO information, ensuring they remain fully informed and engaged.
While currently scaled back due to financial constraints, the full programme is expected to resume in virtual mode once funding improves, incorporating feedback from PRs on key areas of interest and development priorities for Members.
