The General Conference on Weights and Measures, or CGPM (from its French name "Conférence Générale des Poids et Mesures"), is an international diplomatic conference that serves as the highest governing body for the Bureau International des Poids et Mesures (BIPM). It is responsible for maintaining and overseeing the International System of Units (SI).
The CGPM is composed of delegates from member countries and meets once every four years to discuss and decide on matters related to metrology, the science of measurement. Its primary responsibilities include establishing and modifying the definitions and standards for the SI units, ensuring the uniformity and accuracy of measurements worldwide, and promoting the international coordination of metrology.
To achieve these objectives, the CGPM engages in critical discussions on proposals for changes or updates to the SI, evaluating the technical and scientific recommendations put forth by the International Committee for Weights and Measures (CIPM). Additionally, it reviews the progress and activities of the BIPM, providing guidance and policy decisions as necessary.
The decisions and resolutions of the CGPM are documented in official publications, such as the Proceedings of the CGPM and the International Vocabulary of Metrology, which serve as important references for scientists, engineers, and other professionals involved in measurements and standards.
Overall, the CGPM plays a pivotal role in ensuring the global consistency, reliability, and evolution of the fundamental units of measurement, making it a vital institution in the field of metrology and the international scientific community.
