Composition and establishment. As opposed to the more formal AEWA International Species Working Groups, the AEWA International Species Expert Groups are largely based on already existing expert cooperation networks and are more flexible in nature - also requiring less guidance and input from the Secretariat in their day-to-day work. The Expert Groups are therefore also much more flexible with regard to membership. As outlined on the generic Terms of Reference Expert Groups are open to 1) representatives of Governmental bodies of all key Range States relevant to the implementation of AEWA, 2) representatives of national expert and conservation organisations from all key Range States, 3) representatives of international organisations, and 4) other experts as required. The Secretariat establishes Species Expert Groups either by requesting an organization to establish an Expert Group or by contacting an already existing Expert Group and requesting them to become affiliated with the Agreement. Although the link between the Agreement and the Expert Groups is more informal Expert Groups working under the AEWA banner are expected to adhere to the mandate and duties as defined in the above mentioned Terms of Reference. The conditions under which the affiliation of Species Expert Groups with AEWA is granted are: - A Memorandum of Understanding is signed between the UNEP/AEWA Secretariat and the leading organization/institution defining – amongst other issues - the role and mandate of the coordinating organization; - As set out in the Terms of Reference for the International Species Expert Group, the main focus of the group shall be the implementation of the respective AEWA Action Plan; - Membership shall be inclusive; - Possible disputes between different groups/organizations wishing to lead on coordinating the implementation of an AEWA Action Plan and subsequent Expert Group are settled – to the extent possible - before a formal affiliation with AEWA. The association of the Species Expert Group with AEWA can be terminated by the Secretariat at any time should the above conditions not be met.
Composition and establishment. (1) The PEB will be composed as follows:
