Forests, and forest monitoring in particular, are critical to ensuring that countries stay on target with emission reduction goals within the framework of the Paris Agreement. A robust National Forest Monitoring System (NFMS) can support the formulation, monitoring and adjustment of sub- and national forest-related policies, inform citizens and stakeholders and help track progress towards sustainable forest management and reducing emissions related to forest loss. The institutionalisation of NFMS is a crucial next step necessary to enhance country ownership and pave the way for more streamlined, sustainable and transparent use of forest data. The FAO elearning Academy webinar “Forest data for climate action: the importance of legal and institutional frameworks” will highlight how a legal basis, financial commitment and a permanent institutional framework are vital to ensuring efficient implementation and operation of an NFMS. OBJECTIVES OF THIS SESSION • Clarify why legal and institutional arrangements are paramount to implement robust and sustainable National Forest Monitoring Systems (NFMS); • Launch of the FAO paper on “Institutionalisation of forest data: Establishing legal frameworks for sustainable forest monitoring in REDD+ countries”; • Share experiences and lessons learned from Colombia and Uganda for the institutionalization of forest data and enhancement of NFMS.