Taskforces

During the March 2002 IUNS Council meeting in Osaka, Japan, the Council reviewed the IUNS committees and task forces to determine those that had completed their charge, had not functioned effectively and were active and productive. The review resulted in discontinuing committees, and continuing task forces that had active agendas yet to accomplish. Some new task forces were established to meet a specific need and will function in liaison with the IUNS officers.

Due to financial constraints, much of the work of the task forces is expected to be carried out through correspondence, using electronic media where possible. Several task forces will organize successful free-standing workshops or meetings in conjunction with other large international gatherings. In addition to encouraging publication of meeting reports in professional journals, IUNS expects to make the reports available though its website.

The Council discussed and agreed on the following guidelines for the eligibility and ranking of IUNS and Committee of Task Force (CTF):

1)      A CTF must have an effective team leader.

2)      "Terms of Reference" for a CTF will be formulated jointly by Council and the CTF Chair.

3)      Clear objectives will be stated.

4)      The problem to be addressed should have global or regional relevance.

5)      There is international representation on the Task Force.

6)      A Task Force should produce timely reports that are posted on the web, including the IUNS web site, in addition to other methods of dissemination.

7)      Task Forces should be outcome-oriented.  Outcomes might include various scholarly activities, research initiatives, reports and regional or cross regional meetings.  Particular efforts to create Afro-Asian-Latin American linkages and perspectives are encouraged.

8)      CTF's should endeavor to contribute to Capacity Building through the involvement and training of young investigators.

The Council agreed to establish the following Task Forces: