Trade : Revised TRIPS waiver bolsters demand for text-based talks at WTO (PRIV)
(D. Ravi Kanth, Geneva)
The 63 co-sponsors of the proposed TRIPS waiver for saving human lives from the worsening COVID-19 pandemic have brought about a fundamental shift towards text-based negotiations at the WTO, with their revised proposal that calls for an early decision on a "proportionate legal measure for clearing IP barriers for ramping-up the production of COVID-19 vaccines, therapeutics, and diagnostics," said people familiar with the development.

Environment : Africa calls out inequitable virtual negotiations on biodiversity (PRIV)
(Lim Li Ching and Lim Li Lin, London/Hobart)
The African Group, at a key meeting of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), has expressed deep regret that because of the virtual setting, representation from the African Parties has been extremely limited.

Peru : Sowing water by restoring ancient ditches in the highlands (PRIV)
(IPS, Lima)
In the highlands near the capital of Peru, more than 3,000 metres above sea level, age-old water recovery techniques are being used to improve access to water for 1,400 families, for household consumption and for crops and livestock.