The Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) has announced upcoming external review periods for two major biodiversity assessments scheduled for mid-2026, inviting broad participation from experts and Governments worldwide.

The external review of the draft chapters and summary for policymakers of the methodological assessment on integrated biodiversity-inclusive spatial planning and ecological connectivity will run from 1 June to 26 July 2026. The assessment focuses on approaches to spatial planning and ecological connectivity aimed at supporting biodiversity conservation and sustainable development.

In addition, the first external review of the draft chapters of the second global assessment of biodiversity and ecosystem services will take place from 15 June to 8 August 2026. This review phase will be open to interested and qualified experts.

To support both review processes, IPBES will organize a series of online dialogue workshops during the review periods.

According to IPBES, the external review stage is a critical component of the assessment process, helping to ensure the scientific quality, credibility, and policy relevance of the reports. The organization emphasized the importance of wide-ranging participation from scientists, policymakers, practitioners, and other knowledge holders.

Information on reviewer registration and access to the draft documents will be made available at the start of each respective review period. IPBES also expressed appreciation for the continued support and engagement of contributors participating in the assessments.

_{Cover image by Dulcey Lima.}