The Conservation and Sustainable Use of the Ocean in Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction: Where Do We Stand?

Abstract

This chapter discusses recent efforts made at the United Nations to ensure the conservation and sustainable use of ocean resources, particularly those in areas beyond national jurisdiction. By highlighting the publication of the World Ocean Assessment I and the ongoing efforts to develop an international legally binding instrument under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea on the conservation and sustainable use of marine biological diversity of areas beyond national jurisdiction, the continuous engagement of the international community in improving the health of oceans while ensuring its productive capacity for the future is noted. As greater efforts would be needed for States to achieve the targets set out in Sustainable Development Goal 14, this chapter emphasizes that it would be critical to continue to raise awareness of the problems facing the oceans to a broader range of stakeholders.