The IPCC’s work is guided by a set of principles and clear procedures for all the main activities of the organization. These processes and procedures are constantly being reviewed and updated to ensure that they remain strong, transparent and reliable. For recent changes to IPCC procedures and related information see Review of Processes and Procedures (English) which covers all the recent changes to IPCC procedures approved by the Panel in the period 2010-2012.

The document “Principles Governing IPCC Work” lays down the role of the IPCC, its organization, participation in it and its key procedures, and establishes comprehensiveness, objectivity, openness and transparency as guiding principles of IPCC Work.

The following Appendices to the “Principles Governing IPCC Work” provide detailed rules and procedures:

Appendix A

is about the “Procedures for the preparation, review, acceptance, adoption, approval and publication of IPCC Reports“. Including: Annex 1 – Tasks and Responsibilities for Lead Authors, Coordinating Lead Authors, Contributing Authors, Expert Reviewers and Review Editors of IPCC Reports and Government Focal Points; Annex 2 – Procedure on the Use of Literature in IPCC reports; and Annex 3 – “IPCC Protocol for Addressing Possible Errors in IPCC Assessment Reports, Synthesis Reports, Special Reports and Methodology Report“

Appendix B 

covers “Financial Procedures for the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change“

(explanatory notes to the Financial Procedures for the IPCC) (Available in English only)

Appendix C

contains the “Rules of Procedures for the Election of the IPCC Bureau and any Task Force Bureau“.

In order to set priorities and guide decisions on whether to prepare Special Reports, Methodology Reports and Technical Papers, the IPCC has adopted the “Decision Framework and Criteria for Special Reports, Methodology Reports and Technical Papers“. The IPCC also has a “Conflict of Interest Policy” and an “IPCC Policy and Process for admitting Observer Organizations“.