Key Messages from the Marine Regions Forum 2019 at UN 2020 Ocean Conference preparatory meeting

The next decade will be crucial for the health and future of the Ocean. What role can marine regions play in efforts to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals? Which approaches have proven successful and what can be done to enhance their coordination?

Drawing on discussions held at the Marine Regions Forum 2019 and the contributions of participants, the conference organisers (IASS, IDDRI and TMG – Think Tank for Sustainability) have formulated eight Key Messages to support the implementation of the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the planning of effective measures to protect the oceans.

On 4–5 February, IASS project lead Sebastian Unger will present the Key Messages at the preparatory meeting for the United Nations 2020 Ocean Conference.

Participants at the preparatory meeting in New York will define the themes for the United Nations 2020 Ocean Conference dialogues, initiate consultations on the conference outcome document, and identify fields of action for future action to achieve SDG 14. In June the UN Ocean Conference will then bring together all of the UN states and relevant sectors to take stock of the implementation process, register new voluntary commitments for marine conservation by states and other actors, and agree on strategies and actions for future ocean action.

Further information:

 

Image: Nick Polanszky – Coral Reef Image Bank