![]() To conclude, in 2022, the negotiation of an ambitious, future-proof, international legally binding instrument on the conservation and sustainable use of marine biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction, under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).While the Lisbon Declaration and the many progressive commitments made are highly welcome, States and all stakeholders should accelerate action in several key areas in the next few months: I particularly urge governments and the donor community to increase funding dedicated to the ocean and encourages public and private collaborations on innovative ways to mobilize new finance and to incentivize investments in ocean conservation. This level of resources is marginal compared to the contribution of the Ocean to human development and wellbeing. Only 1.6% of the Overseas Development Aid (ODA) and 1.7% of the global research budget is dedicated to SDG 14. The means of implementation will be essential to implement such a bold vision, both in terms of sufficient financial resources and ample capacity. Now that the global ocean community has come together in Lisbon, it is even more critical to follow through to ensure that key conventions and processes adopt decisive actions for the Ocean. The IPCC Sixth Assessment Report cautions that we have a “brief and rapidly closing window of opportunity to secure a liveable and sustainable future for all”. ![]() Now is the time to be bold, visionary and pragmatic, so that by 2030 we can collectively achieve at least 30% protection and 100% sustainable management of our ocean for the benefit of humankind and our world. Nevertheless, it is important that we build on this extraordinary momentum, to accelerate post Lisbon-progress towards a healthy, productive and resilient ocean with thriving marine and coastal species, ecosystems and communities and, moreover, the next generation of blue leaders and entrepreneurs. These outcomes are all causes for a well-deserved celebration. ![]()
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