(7th meeting) High-Level Political Forum 2025
Economic and Social Council
Date: 17 July 2025
Language: English
Transcript: https://transcripts.un.org/ar/asset/k14/k14k7tot0k?lang=en
Transcripts available through this tool are created by using automatic speech recognition and are not official records nor official documents of the United Nations. Official records and official documents are available on the Official Document System of the United Nations.

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ECOSOC · Chair [0:00]:

The 7th meeting of the High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development, convened under the auspices of the Economic and Social Council at its 2025 sessions, is called to order. Excellencies, distinguished delegates, I invite the Forum to resume its considerations of Sub-item A of Agenda Item 2, Review of the Sustainable Development Goals 3, 5, 8, 14, and 17, to hold an interactive panel discussions on SDG 14 and interlinkages with other SDGs, Life Below Water. This interactive panel discussion will focus on the challenges and opportunities related to SDG 14, which aims to conserve and sustainably use oceans, seas, and marine resources. Despite being critical, SDG 14 is underfunded and facing significant threats such as overexploitation, pollutions, and climate change. The discussion will explore strategies to reverse this trend through inclusive and science-driven actions, emphasizing partnerships, innovations, innovative financing, and cross-sectoral cooperation. It will also address the interlinkages between the SDG 14 and other goals, under review in 2025, including health, gender equality, decent work, and partnerships, while building on the outcomes of the 2025 UN Ocean Conference to enhance resilience and sustainability in coastal and marine ecosystems. Before we begin our discussion, I invite you to watch a short video highlighting key findings from the newly released 2025 SDG Progress Report related to Goal 14 on Life Below Water. This video will help set the stage and provide valuable context for our deliberations today. And I request to play the video now.


Speaker 2 [2:45]:

Our ocean is the planet's lifeline, regulating climate, supporting biodiversity, sustaining livelihoods, and feeding billions. But overfishing, pollution, and climate change are pushing marine ecosystems to the brink. Only 8.4% of the ocean is protected, far short of the 30% target by 2030. Just 64.5% of global marine fish stocks are fished at biologically sustainable levels. And in 2024, ocean heat reached a 65-year high. Continual warming has triggered the most intense coral bleaching event ever recorded, with 84% of reefs facing heat stress. Between 2023 and 2025, coral reefs, home to a quarter of marine life, are vanishing. Rising carbon dioxide is driving ocean acidification. However, monitoring stations have quadrupled since 2021, critical for understanding impacts and planning adaptation. Illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing still accounts for 15% of global catches. This undermines food security damages local economies, and hits small-scale fishers hardest. But there is hope. At the UN Ocean Conference in 2025, countries adopted a bold declaration, made over 800 voluntary commitments, and advanced the Treaty on Marine Biodiversity in Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction. Solutions exist, through strong fisheries management, ecosystem-based approaches, blue finance, and ambitious strategic conservation. Find out more information in the Sustainable Development Goals Report 2025.


ECOSOC · Chair [5:11]:

Thank you, Excellencies. Distinguished delegates, I am now pleased to welcome our panelists: Ms. Elizabeth McLeod, Global Ocean Director at The Nature Conservancy; Ms. Edith Rudith Lukanga, Secretary General of the African Women Fish Processors and Traders Network; and Mr. Charles Élieu, Deputy to the Special Envoy of France for the Third United Nations Ocean Conference. I also welcome our lead discussant. I am also pleased to welcome our moderator, Mr. Kilipati Ramakrishna, Director of Marine Policy Center and Senior Advisor to the President on Ocean and Climate Policy at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution. I now hand over the conduct of the discussions to the moderator, Mr. Ram Krishna. You have the floor now.


Moderator · Kilipati Ramakrishna [6:24]:

Thank you, Mr. President, Excellencies, distinguished delegates, colleagues, and friends. It is an honor to moderate this important session on Sustainable Development Goal 14 and its vital interlinkages with the broader 2030 Agenda. As the ocean rises, both literally and figuratively, on the global agenda, we are reminded that the health of our ocean is inseparable from the health of our planet, our economies, and our societies. Over the last decade, progress on SDG 14 has been uneven. While we have seen increased awareness, new alliances, and growing momentum, we have also faced persistent challenges And as the President mentioned, underfunded commitments, fragmented governance, and unequal access to science, finance, and capacity. At the same time, we now stand at the cusp of major transitions with science-based targets, new instruments like the BBNJ Agreement nearing entry into force, in a rapidly shifting technological and policy landscape. And importantly, 2025 has been called the Year of the Ocean, and rightfully so. From the powerful messages delivered at the Third United Nations Conference in Nice to the emerging climate-ocean discussions on the road to COP30 in Belém, this is a moment to connect the dots to embed ocean action across climate, biodiversity, equity, and economic recovery. Today we will hear from three distinguished panelists whose work reflects the diversity, challenges, and promise of ocean action. We will explore how global crises, new science, gender-responsive policies, and local-to-global partnerships can accelerate progress, not only on SDG 14 but across the whole of 2030 Agenda. We are also fortunate to be joined by a lead discussant who will help us reflect and challenge our thinking. As requested by you, Mr. President, this interactive panel is organized as a dynamic exchange between our distinguished panelists and me in my capacity as the moderator. I will have one overarching question to all of the panelists and a specific follow-up question. The overarching question is this: Over the past 10 years, what have been the most significant obstacles to the implementation of SDG 14, and what emerging opportunities could help accelerate progress toward achieving this goal by 2030? Let us aim to make this a dynamic, forward-looking dialogue, one that recognizes not only what's been hard but also what's now possible, and one that, in the spirit of the 2030 Agenda, leaves no one behind, especially the most vulnerable coastal communities, small-scale fishers, and women who depend on the ocean for livelihoods and resilience. Let us begin. So I first turn to our first panelist, Elizabeth McLeod. As she has been introduced, she's the Global Ocean Director of The Nature Conservancy. And Elizabeth, you have the floor.


TNC · Global Ocean Director · Elizabeth McLeod [10:24]:

Thank you very much, Excellencies, distinguished delegates. It is an honor to be with you all today. Over the past decade, we have seen incredible momentum increasing ocean protection, but there are significant challenges that still exist, as we have heard. There's 3 key challenges I want to mention today. The first is the finance gap remains one of our most significant barriers. And despite the fact that we know that oceans are contributing up to $3 trillion annually to global GDP, they support over 30 million jobs, supporting restoration and conservation efforts around the world. They are chronically underfunded. And this situation is compounded not just by the biodiversity crisis and the climate crisis, but by the growing debt crisis. Developing nations now carry an astonishing $11 trillion in sovereign debt, which means that they're having to face really difficult trade-offs about debt repayment instead of ocean protection or social services. Or climate adaptation. And so to address this, we need to be rapidly scaling up financial mechanisms that unlock durable, high-impact conservation. At The Nature Conservancy, we're helping governments and partners to do just that through our Nature Bonds program. These are debt conversions that tie national debt restructuring to conservation outcomes. To date, the work has helped to refinance over $1.5 billion of sovereign debt, unlocking over $535 million in sustainable financing for ocean protection and climate action in places like the Seychelles, Belize, Barbados, Gabon, and the Bahamas. And I just want to honor the leadership of those governments in that. So in addition, we need to be supporting blended finance and impact investment to really have large-scale conservation. The second thing I want to mention is the challenge of fragmented governance. And the need to move towards effective protection. We heard in the video that only 8% of the ocean is actually legally protected and less than 3% is effectively managed. We have a critical gap also in areas beyond national jurisdictions in the high seas. And while we've had progress made, we had at the UN Ocean Conference, over 50 countries have now ratified BBNJ, which was awesome. And we were fingers crossed we were going to get over the line but didn't quite make it. We're getting closer to the 60 that are needed to bring it into full force. And that's a vital step in managing biodiversity in the high seas and reaching our 30 by 30 targets. The last thing I want to mention is the challenge of the failure to fully empower communities in our conservation projects and programs. Lasting and just marine protection depends on inclusive governance, and we need to move from thinking about co-participation and co-management to centering around co-governance and community authority in decision-making. And that means shifting from treating local stakeholders as recipients to recognizing them as architects of durable solutions. So we have compelling models of what that looks like. Just last year in Canada, on the Great Bear Sea, 17 First Nations came together with the Government of Canada and the Government of British Columbia to co-design and co-govern what is now the world's largest indigenous-led marine protected area network on the planet, protecting 10 million hectares of culturally and ecologically important ocean. So just a great example of the leadership and the kinds of solutions that we need to be focusing on and implementing.


Moderator · Kilipati Ramakrishna [13:58]:

Thank you, Lizzie. If I could just stay with you for a little bit longer, in your capacity and experience as the Global Ocean Director at TNC, How do you see the recent global crisis, new international commitments, Conference of the Parties discussions on climate and biodiversity, and emerging technologies influencing long-term trends and reshaping the path towards achieving SDG 14, and what you see as the future? Thank you.


TNC · Global Ocean Director · Elizabeth McLeod [14:29]:

Well, at this moment, we have to be laser-focused on delivering Action. We've heard a lot about commitments and new commitments, and we really have to be leaning into delivering the action that is so needed to turn things around. We have the Paris Agreement, when implemented, will help us turn the tide on climate change. We have the Global Biodiversity Framework, when implemented, will help us halt and reverse biodiversity loss. We have the SDGs, when implemented, will help us tackle the interconnected crises of biodiversity, climate change, and poverty. We don't need more targets. We don't need more commitments. What we need is for governments to lean in and take action to deliver the commitments that we have. And that's a key role for us at The Nature Conservancy and park conservation partners around the world are helping to support countries to actually deliver those commitments. We work across over 50 country offices working with governments to help them actually establish their national plans for how to meet those global targets. And once in place, we support implementation. Some key examples of that, like supporting electronic monitoring pilots that allow governments to ensure transparency in their industrial fishing fleets, like we've done in Micronesia. Things like co-creating harvest strategies for coastal fisheries— we'll hear more about that in a minute— with fishers and fishing agencies, like we've done in Tanzania. Restoring coastal ecosystems that are super important for protecting our coastlines and supporting biodiversity and livelihoods in places like Papua New Guinea, supporting marine spatial planning processes that help governments and communities to provide marine protection and sustainable use like we've done in Belize. So right now, the work to improve national policies and regulate finance flows is more important than ever. And unfortunately, we're seeing a contraction in international development funding. So it is even more critical to get things right in the design stage and ensure that the money is flowing to things that are supporting our life support systems that we so depend on. We have a tremendous opportunity to support oceans in mitigation and adaptation policy. There are over 150 countries that have at least one blue carbon ecosystem. These are the mangroves and the salt marshes and the seagrasses that are so important for storing carbon. 30% of these countries have not yet acknowledged these valuable ecosystems in their national climate plans. So we're working to provide policymakers with data to help support their adaptation mitigation actions, to help benefit communities and deliver conservation outcomes. We're providing science, spatial analysis, and technical support to help them implement not just their NDCs and their national adaptation plans, their development plans, and their NBSAPs. And we're working to shift economic incentives and policies towards sustainable practices that also deliver equitable finance flows. And we're leveraging new technologies as well. An example of this is how we're using electronic monitoring on fisheries to be more cost effective in enforcing regulations and combating the illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing. Use of radar and AI to track vessel activity and detect illegal fishing in protected areas. The use of AI to support ecosystem monitoring so that we can analyze huge amounts of data underwater to help protect our vital coral reefs. To fully deliver SDG 14, we have to harness cutting-edge tools and technology. We have to implement existing climate, biodiversity, and sustainability commitments, establish the innovative financing that's necessary, and ensure inclusive governance and the equitable distribution of benefits. Thank you.


Moderator · Kilipati Ramakrishna [18:14]:

Thank you very much. A very powerful point indeed, you know, in terms of the commitments that we have. The goal is to first meet them before we think about what more and new and additional commitments we might have, and I'm sure there will be a lot of questions and suggestions on the way forward on that. Thank you, Elizabeth McLeod. And I now move on to our next distinguished panellist, Edith Roodet Lukanga. She's the Secretary-General, as she has been introduced, of a very important organization from Africa. You have the same first overarching question, Edith Rudith, and that is: Over the past 10 years, what have been the most significant obstacles to the implementation of SDG 14, and what emerging opportunities could help accelerate progress toward achieving the goal by 2030? You have the floor.


Secretary-General · Edith Rudith Lukanga [19:03]:

Thank you. Thank you, Moderator. Your Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, coming directly from the UN Ocean Conference, I want to build on its momentum with a constructive message from the small-scale fishing communities. With more than 25 years working with the small-scale fishing communities, men and women, at the national level, at the regional level and the global level, I've listened to their stories and witnessed both their resilience and the invisible barriers they face. And here, therefore, I speak as someone deeply rooted in this reality. The challenge or the obstacle is not the ambition of the SDG 14 and the other related SDGs. It is the implementation gap across numerous UN agreements, treaties, and the voluntary instruments we have already endorsed. And for me, a very special instrument that I want to bring across here is the FAO Voluntary Guidelines for Securing Sustainable Small-Scale Fisheries in the Context of Food Security and Poverty Alleviation, shortly known as the SSF Guidelines, which translates human rights principles into practical guidance for inclusive ocean governance. Over the past decade, communities have participated in consultations. Yet too often their priorities, such as secure tenure, fair access to resources and markets, safe and decent working conditions, pollution control, and recognition of women's central role in post-harvest and trade have not been consistently reflected in on-the-ground decisions. And this is very important to take note of. Large-scale market-driven initiatives can help, but when designed without local participation, they risk excluding the very people who sustain the coastal food systems. From a small-scale fisheries perspective, I want to highlight among the many, many interlinked implementation barriers, I'll talk of only 5 that stand out for me. One of them is the fragmented uptake of the UN guidance across ministries and sectors. We've listened to the previous speaker about that. The second one is the insufficient legal and practical recognition of the small-scale fisheries tenure and gender equity in decision-making, but also the finance flows that seldomly reach community institutions or women's organizations. I work with Women in Africa. We have a presence in 44 countries in Africa, reaching millions of women. But then the challenges, you can talk about them from today up until the following day. Again, persistent data gaps, especially on the small-scale fisheries catches, value addition, women's labor, and safety that weaken policy and investment cases. But also, last but not least, climate pollution and occupational risks that erode both ecosystems and livelihoods. So the opportunity now following UNOC 3 With the BBNJ agreement, subsidy reform discussions, and the growing blue finance sector is to align these streams around the nationally-led community-anchored implementation, especially of the small-scale fisheries guidelines that have been developed in a very participatory manner, and they are anchored at the community level. So let's embed small-scale fisheries and gender criteria in SDG 14 follow-up plans in the remaining 5 years at least. We need to co-design area-based measures that secure food and livelihood functions, create direct access finance windows for community and women groups linked to ecological and social outcomes. We need also to invest in participatory gender disaggregated data systems and also integrate safety at sea and decent work into conservation and blue food investments. So if we measure success by healthier oceans and improved nutrition, equity, and dignified livelihoods in the fishing communities, we will be able to bring SDG 14 back on track, and surely we will be able to leave no one behind, especially the men, women, and the youth in the fishing communities. Thank you.


Moderator · Kilipati Ramakrishna [23:57]:

Thank you very much. You have touched on this already, but I wonder if you could very briefly reflect on one of the key attributes of SDGs, their interlinkages with each other goal. And from your experience of running the African Women Fish Processors and Traders Network, How do you see leveraging the synergies between SDG 14 with SDG 5, Gender Equality and Women's Empowerment, and SDG 8, Dealing with Economic Growth and Decent Work for All?


Secretary-General · Edith Rudith Lukanga [24:31]:

Thank you. Thank you, Moderator. That's a very good question. With the experience I've already mentioned about, I've learned that women ecosystems decline, women's incomes collapse, when value chains are upgraded sustainably. Whole household benefits. These are nutrition improves— nutrition improvements, children stay in school, and communities gain the confidence and resources to steward their waters. So for me, healthy waters, which is SDG 14, Gender Equality, SDG 5, and Decent Work and Inclusive Growth, SDG 8, are not separate agenda. They function as one resilient system, and if any pillar is weak, others also fail. So from that lived experience, I see several opportunities that align these goals. One is We must ensure that women are seen and counted across the fisheries value chain, formally recognized as and registered so that they can access all the opportunities around the value chain, including access to training, finance, and spaces where management decisions are made. And this will improve at the end the compliance and the quality of data that guides sustainability. Because without data we are not able to plan properly. Another one is the need for gender-responsive tenure and access arrangements so that the places where women work, such as the landing sites, the processing areas, and the nearshore harvesting grounds, are secure, therefore enabling investment and reducing the losses. But also the third one is the decent work safety and social protection must be integrated into fisheries and labor policies alike, covering occupational health risks, violence prevention, but also insurance against shocks. I'll end here for now, and I'll be open to continue when time allows.


Moderator · Kilipati Ramakrishna [26:46]:

Thank you. Thank you very much for that very powerful connection between SDG 14 and other goals, and thank you for that intervention. Our final panelist is Charles Tellier. He is Deputy to the Special Envoy of France for UNOCCH III, and you have the same overarching question as for the other panelists, but then I have a very long follow-up question. So I'll first give the floor to you for the overarching question.


France · Deputy to the Special Envoy · Charles Tellier [27:10]:

Thank you. Thank you so much, Moderator, distinguished colleagues, delegates. First, I want to thank all of you in the room because without you here in New York, and I'm talking specifically to experts from the missions, UNOC would not have been the success that it has been. The negotiation of the political declaration was absolutely critical to the success of UNOC. Of course, it's not just all of the side events and ministers being happy that they were able to convene, but the work you did here with the UN Secretariat was absolutely essential to the success. It's not the success of France, it's the success of the international community. It's not the success of France and Costa Rica— sorry— it's not the success of just the co-host, it's just— it is the success of all of us, and that success is in great part due to you. So thank you. Um, the— I'd like to say it more eloquently than Elizabeth and Edwidge, but I, I can't. There's— they've already mentioned the key, uh, the key elements of, um, what is, um, what is missing, um, and the key obstacles. Um, I think I think if you look back 10 years, there's multiple things. I think one of the core elements is that we've only— I mean, we haven't listened to science enough, maybe, but we've only recently integrated the ocean-climate nexus. So we've had a fragmentation of for discussion, for negotiation. And it's not just about, you know, having different COPs and not having one for the ocean. It's also in terms of the fragmentation of conservation forests and fishing forests. There's, there's a very large and wide-ranging architecture on protecting the ocean and, and making sure that it can be sustainably used. But it's very fragmented financing. Elizabeth pointed out the key numbers, and, and, you know, one of the reasons why we organize the Blue Economy and Finance Forum with Monaco in the margins of, of NIS and UNOC3 was precisely because we absolutely wanted the blue economy and finance community, which is still too small, but having multinational development banks, having financiers, the private sector, commercial banks, and communities come together and say there is a wide margin of progress in terms of what we can do to finance the growth of the blue economy. And this is what we're going to do, this is where we are going to commit to, um, is I think part of the recognition that it's underfunded. And so if you— in, in some ways I think the main obstacle has been that not so much that we lacked ambition to make the ocean one of the key elements of our thinking around protecting our climate, protecting our biodiversity, and protecting our economy. Um, it's that we've been faced with this fragmentation that we haven't been able to overcome. And I think UNEP in that sense has provided the opportunity to take a huge step change and go beyond those limitations and realize that we have to come bring those strands together if we want to be successful at protecting the ocean.


Moderator · Kilipati Ramakrishna [31:36]:

Thank you very much for that, and you know, the two weeks in Nice have been phenomenal experience in terms of the challenge that was there in front of us and the results that were accomplished. And as you know, I come from a scientific research institution, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, and one thing that happened that was equally remarkable is the One Ocean Science Congress organized by CNRS and IFREMER. And the goal there was to really advise the governments that the decisions that they take are based on science and proper evidence. I wonder if you could reflect on key elements of an effective science policy society interface that can integrate marine science into decision-making in an inclusive theme. And I would also wonder if you could talk about— yeah, I think, you know, the connection and the way forward. And of course, you know, I would be remiss in not congratulating France Costa Rica and the United Nations and, of course, all the member states for the remarkable progress that was achieved at U-NAC 3?


France · Deputy to the Special Envoy · Charles Tellier [32:47]:

Thank you, Mr. Madhav Reddy. It's a very good question because I think one of the challenges that I only very, very, very briefly mentioned is indeed data information, knowledge that is accessible to all, that is tailored to the users. And, um, we need more innovation, um, we need emerging technologies, uh, and I think, you know, artificial intelligence, big data, um, the digital twin of the ocean, um, all of this will provide the information that we need to monitor the state of the global marine environment and also explore what the scenarios for action and impact could be. And I think, um, one of the key outcomes of the One Ocean Science Congress, which was, if the numbers are correct, um, the largest ever, um, convening of marine scientists and ocean scientists, uh, with 2,500 scientists coming together and launching a marine university network as well, which I think is something that's, that's critical to making sure that all of the very many strands of work— it's, it's, it's, um, it's not just ecosystems, it's the interface the climate science, it's the interface with, um, and the economy. And, and so one of the things that, um, came out of this is also that science does not exist in a vacuum. And so the interface with communities, uh, the interface with civil society, uh, and linking that to decision-making is, is something that needs a proper interface. We have some formats that make this, but we, we need something more with data and information, like the digital twin, for example, that actually bring this to policymakers and makes it understandable for decision makers, for negotiators as well. And, you know, in all of these, um, forums that I was mentioning, um, you can't decide on sound policy without sound science. And so integrating this with and making full use of all of the new and emerging technologies, I think, is, is one of the, the core aspects of, um, what is needed for an effective science-to-policy interface.


Moderator · Kilipati Ramakrishna [35:41]:

Thank you very much. Thank you very much. One of the true underpinnings of this whole question is the science policy society interaction, and I had the pleasure of being part of the Project Neptune, another major initiative, and I look forward to seeing how that actually connects that up with all these three aspects. Now it is my distinct pleasure to turn to our lead discussant, Sofika Kostiniuk, Managing Director of the Aquatic Life Institute. Sofika, you have a wide berth, you know, you can reflect on the interventions of our distinguished panelists and make any comment that you see, including possibly raising questions. You have the floor.


Managing Director · Sofika Kostiniuk [36:33]:

Thank you, Mr. Moderator. Distinguished delegates, ladies and gentlemen. First of all, I'd like to thank our expert panelists for the fascinating interventions that they presented. They were very thoughtful. They laid out for us some systemic challenges that our ocean is facing, including climate change, gender inequality, but also laid out some potential solutions pathways for us to consider as we move forward into this new chapter. Something that has been made entirely clear for me is that we need integrated, humane, and inclusive solutions. I'd like to shine a bright light on an often very neglected aspect of SDG 14, and that is aquatic animal welfare. Collectively, we kill over, um, trillions and trillions of aquatic animals that are highly sentient every single year for our consumption. We do not consider the implications of these actions, yet the negative implications are significant, from impacting ocean health, resilience, and fairness of our, of our shared resources. If any of you have seen Sir David Attenborough's most recent documentary, Ocean, you'll have witnessed the destructive impact of one of the most common forms of industrial fishing, which is bottom trawling. Through this practice, aquatic animals are indiscriminately scooped up into these large nets, and they suffer greatly through the practice. However, bottom trawling also negatively impacts the seafloor, releasing tons of sequestered carbon into the atmosphere. We lose mass amounts of otherwise highly nutritious protein, and— pardon me— we pollute the oceans and our waters with dirty diesel that is used to fuel these vessels. At Aquatic Life Institute, where I work, we focus on embedding aquatic animal welfare into ocean governance. We do this through advocating for science-based solutions, eliminating inhumane practices, and ensuring that sustainability is never, is never pursued at the expense of the suffering of other animals. So in light of today's fascinating discussion, I'd like to leave with you a few questions for your consideration into how, how do we move forward from this place. So first, as we begin to scale the blue economy, as we begin to invest more, as we begin to provide more ingenuity, how do we ensure that safeguards are put in place for aquatic animals and all of the other SDGs that, that they underpin? And secondly, how might we use intergovernmental processes like the recent UN Ocean Conference, the follow-up meetings, as well as regional fishing management reforms to ensure that any of these safeguards that are put into place are real, long-lasting, and fully enforceable? Thank you so much.


Moderator · Ram Krishna [39:50]:

Thank you very much. Mr. President, as I return the floor to you, I would just like to make a few concluding remarks and then look forward to an opportunity to listen to and opportunity providing to reflect back on it in the end. I want to thank our panelists and lead discussant for— a very rich and thought-provoking insight. What we heard today was not only a call for more action, but for smarter, more inclusive, and more integrated action. We heard about the need to connect global ambition with local realities, to link SDG 14 with other critical goals, from gender equality to decent work, and to put science at the heart of policy while ensuring it is co-produced, co-owned, and acted upon across sectors and scales. Several strong themes emerged: the power of community leadership, especially women in fisheries; the growing urgency and opportunity of translating scientific advances into policy and practice, and the vital role of partnerships including with the private sector, philanthropic community in closing implementation gaps. Perhaps more importantly, we were reminded that the ocean must no longer be a siloed issue. It is a foundation— it is foundational in achieving the entire 2030 Agenda and, as we discussed last year, the pact for the future we hope to shape. As we move from the Forum to the UN General Assembly High-Level Segment and to COP30 in Belém and toward UNEC IV in South Korea co-organized with Chile, let us carry these messages forward with urgency, unity and purpose. Thank you all for your engagement. I now return the floor to Excellency President of ECOSOC. Thank you.


ECOSOC · President [42:03]:

Thank you. I thank the moderator Ram Krishna for conducting this panel excellently and also summing up the panel discussions. And colleagues, we will now proceed to the interactive discussions. Delegations wishing to intervene are invited to request the floor by pressing the microphone button. I have already seen that most of you have already done so. I also take the opportunity to remind participants that the— after carefully calculating the time available for us, the time limit for the interventions from the floor is, uh, is, uh, say, 2.5 minutes. Please bear in mind that the time limit may need to be adjusted again depending on the number of requests from the floor, and countdown clock is visible on the screen to alert speakers when it is time to conclude your statements. In case speakers exceed their time limit, the microphone will be automatically deactivated. I apologize in advance if speakers are cut off. And you, you know very well that this measure is taken to ensure that all speakers can deliver their statements in the limited time available for the discussions. Again, to ensure proper interpretations, and you are asked to speak at a normal pace and to provide a written copy of your statements by email to e-statements@un.org. With this, now I first give the floor to the ministerial respondent, His Excellency Mika Pautala, Minister of Youth, Sport and Physical Activity of Finland. Your Excellency, you have the floor.


Finland · Minister of Youth, Sport and Physical Activity · Mika Pautala [44:08]:

Mr. Chair, Excellencies, distinguished delegates. It is imperative that we accelerate the implementation of SDG 14. The pollution of our oceans, the worsening impacts of climate change, and overfishing and biodiversity loss pose serious threats to the food security of millions and to the climate regulation functions of the entire biosphere. We welcome the results achieved in the 3rd United Nations Oceans Conference in June 2025 and hope to see them catalyze concrete action. We must expedite the ratifications of the BBNJ Agreement and ensure its swift and ambitious implementation. Equally, the ongoing negotiations for a legally binding global plastic treaty must succeed in delivering a robust agreement by August 2025. Finland remains actively engaged in both processes. To improve the state of coastal waters, it is essential to address land-based sources of pollution nutrients, hazardous substances, and litter. Finland is implementing targeted measures to reduce agricultural runoff, and we urge the international community to give greater attention to this critical issue on global scale. The ongoing replenishment of Global Environment Facility presents a valuable opportunity for the international community to invest more to protect and converse international waters, as well as to tackle pollution in marine environment. Achieving SDG 14 must go hand in hand with promoting youth engagement and gender equality. Women in coastal communities are often on the front lines of ocean-based livelihoods, yet their knowledge and contributions remain undervalued in marrying policy and governance.

Thank you.


ECOSOC · Chair [46:28]:

I thank the Minister of Youth, Sport and Physical Activity of Finland. Now I give the floor to His Excellency Martin Franco, Vice Minister of Economic Planning of Dominican Republic. Your Excellency, you have the floor.


Dominican Republic · Vice Minister of Economic Planning · Martin Franco [46:46]:

Ambassador. Distinguished delegates, I have the honor to deliver this joint statement on behalf of the delegations of Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Belize, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Guatemala, Guadalupe, Honduras, Mexico, Saint Lucia, Saint Kitts and Nevis, which are members of the Association of Caribbean States. And my own country, the Dominican Republic. The sargassum phenomenon, though natural in origin, has reached an unprecedented scale and frequency due to factors linked to climate change, nutrient pollution, and disruption in ocean current circulation. It impacts— it impacts, jeopardizes the ecological balance of marine environments, causes serious public health risks, and place socioeconomic pressures on coastal communities. In several regions, especially in the Greater Caribbean, massive sargassum influences directly affect critical economic activities such as tourism and fisheries, raising serious concerns about food security and the livelihoods of thousands of families that depend directly or indirectly on these economic activities. Moreover, the decomposition of sargassum along coastlines produces harmful gases that threaten human health and contribute to the degradation of vital marine ecosystems, including coral reefs and seagrass beds. This phenomenon represents a growing and direct threat to achieving their commitments under SDG 14, Life Below Water, as well as related goals on health, decent work, climate action, and economic growth. We must, we must not lose sight of sargassum as a transborder issue. Its scale and nature make it a structural regional challenge, disproportionately affecting small island developing states. We can develop effective, resilient, and long-term mitigation and adaptation strategies to address this crisis only through collective, sustained, and solidarity-based actions grounded in regional and international cooperation.


ECOSOC · Chair [49:28]:

Excellency, my apology because the mic is caught, and I thank His Excellency, the Vice Minister of Economic Planning of Dominican Republic, for his interventions. Now I give the floor to His Excellency, Serhii Blasenko, Deputy Minister of Environment of Ukraine. Your Excellency, you have the floor.


Ukraine · Deputy Minister of Environment · Serhii Blasenko [49:51]:

Excellencies, colleagues, thank you for the opportunity to speak on Ukraine's experience in advancing SDG 14, Life Below Water. To guide our national efforts, the Government of Ukraine has approved updated target indicators for the SDGs through 2030. The Ministry of Environmental Protection and Natural Resources coordinates the implementation of SDG 14 with key priorities including reducing marine pollution, protection coastal ecosystems, and regulating marine bioresource use sustainably. As part of— as a party to the Convention on Biological Diversity and other relevant agreements, Ukraine remains committed to preserving and restoring marine ecosystems in line with international law. We are also updating our national biodiversity strategy based on the Global Biodiversity Framework. Before Russia's full-scale invasion, Ukraine had made notable progress in protecting marine areas. Nearly 6% of our territorial waters held protected status under national law, with 30% identified as internationally important for biodiversity. But since 2020, the war has severely disputed these efforts. Russian occupation has paralyzed conservation in the Azov and Black Sea basins. 5 national nature parks, 1 biosphere reserve, and several key coastal wetlands are now inaccessible. The ecological consequences are devastating, from habitat destruction construction and mining to the death of marine species such as dolphins. Let me highlight two major environmental disasters. In December 2024, large-scale accident involving two Russian tankers, Volgonyev 212 and 239, occurred in the Kerch Strait, resulting in a significant full oil spill into the Black and causing long-term pollution. These events have degraded habitats, harmed aquatic life, and increased health risks through contaminated seafood. They also illustrate serious—


ECOSOC · Chair [52:24]:

I thank His Excellency the Minister Deputy Minister of Environment of Ukraine. Now I give the floor to Her Excellency, Ms. Anniko Reisz, the Minister of State for Environment Policy of Hungary. Your Excellency, you have the floor.


Hungary · Minister of State for Environment Policy · Anniko Reisz [52:48]:

Thank you very much, Excellency, dear colleagues. Water demands a distinguished place also in the life of the Kappadokian Basin, and I thank you for the floor for being a landlocked country, but I'm I'm going to explain to you why it is very important for Länder countries as well to participate in common efforts like this. We also one of the countries who already ratified the BBNJ, as mentioned by Elizabeth McLeod in the intervention, and it also shows that we are strongly committed to climate action and also to the protection of oceans and seas as well. Of course, we truly believe that we have to use our waters in order to maintain them for the next generations and for the ecosystem as well. So therefore, everyday life and, and actions are going to influence how it works. We truly and deeply believe in the source-to-sea holistic review of you, and therefore we do believe that we also have something to say in the position of oceans and seas. We are a downstream country, so our— the quality and the quantity of waters is essential for us. You have to see that for the case of Hungary, 10 to 50% of waters have already disappeared from, from the waters coming from abroad. Therefore, it's very important to look at this aspect as well. And as for the quality of the waters, we truly believe that we have to emphasize the influence of cross-border impacts. Therefore, I would like to name you Some few, some examples where we think that we did something to, to change, to challenge, to these challenges. There is a so-called waste removal effort, PET Cup, which is so successful that 6 other countries have taken over. This is actually a civil society organization who helped to clean up the rivers. A majority of, of the waste occurring in these rivers come from abroad., but with this social intervention, we clean up a large amount of waste there. And also, we place a high emphasis on education, so we do believe that if we teach our children how to treat waters, they are going to do it better than we did. And lastly, I would like to call for your support in the INC 5.2 negotiations. This is the only way where we can to protect our oceans for the long term. Thank you very much.


ECOSOC · Chair [55:21]:

I thank Her Excellency the Minister of State of Hungary. Now I give the floor to Her Excellency Ms. Renata Kuleva, Deputy Minister of Environment of Bulgaria. Your Excellency, you have the floor.


Bulgaria · Deputy Minister of Environment · Renata Kuleva [55:40]:

Thank you, dear delegates, dear ladies and gentlemen. It's my privilege and great honor to be part of this interesting discussion on SDG 14, discussing marine and ocean issues. Marine and ocean health is vital for social and economic well-being of mankind as they provide food, resources, energy, and jobs for millions of people all over the world. However, pressures due to human activities intensify and ruin healthy marine environment. Unsustainable fishing practices, land and marine pollution of all kinds, plastic, fast coastal development, resource exploitation, Invasive species, ocean warming due to climate change destroy the balance in marine and coastal ecosystems. Bulgaria, as a part of the European Union, believes that all commitment and COPs discussion on climate change and biodiversity play essential role for achieving sustainable development and in particular achieving SDG 14. International agreements, Conventions and processes, the ongoing ones as well, are powerful instruments to take ambitious actions to affect the negative trends and change the landscape in long terms. Working within the framework of all this underlines the importance of the connections between SDG 14 and the other SDGs. Creating synergies between ocean, climate, and biodiversity calls for coordinated actions for global solutions. The European Union and its member states, as a leader, is encouraging countries to raise their ambitions to address climate change, marine biodiversity loss, and pollution. Bulgaria is among the European countries that support the increased level of ambitions. Although there is common understanding on the Global Ocean Goal, implementation gaps remain in funding, governments, and capacity building.

Strengthen the international efforts at all levels through coordination and collaboration among governments, international organizations, private


ECOSOC · Chair [58:16]:

I thank Her Excellency, the Deputy Minister of Environment of Bulgaria, and now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Palau speaking on behalf of the OASIS, to be followed by European Union.


Palau · AOSIS · Permanent Representative [58:35]:

Mr. Vice President, I have the honor to deliver the following statement on behalf of the Alliance of Small Island States, Aeosis. We return from the 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference in Nice energized by proof that multilateralism endures. Yet the challenges before us have never been more urgent. The ocean that we heavily rely on is under immense pressure on all fronts, with climate change, biodiversity, and pollution crises converging in unprecedented ways. Meanwhile, international public finance is being diverted away from sustainable development to conflicts activities that undermine ocean health. Since we last reviewed SDG 14 in 2022, we have witnessed significant policy and legal developments. We've seen growing commitments to the ocean-climate-biodiversity nexus and recognition that the ocean is not just affected by these crises but also central to solving them. The International Tribunal on the Law of the Sea, ITLOS, has determined that we must take all necessary measures to prevent, reduce, and control marine pollution from anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions. At COP28, the world committed to transitioning away from fossil fuels. Now, in 2025, we have so much to anticipate. The BB&J agreement's entry into force is imminent. Major emitters are expected to submit 1.5-degree aligned NDCs, and we are working towards the conclusion of an internationally legally binding instrument to end plastic pollution. Solutions. There's no question that much is happening, yet SDG 14 remains the least funded. We excel at making commitments, but do we deliver? Current investments fall drastically short of the $550 billion needed annually to secure long-term ocean health. For SIDS, every major impediment we face traces back to this fundamental issue of insufficient financing. EOSIS calls for enhanced support to build modern infrastructure, technology, capacity building, and innovation hubs to unlock the full potential of our ocean-based economies. Mr. Vice President, the next 5 years will define whether we seize this moment and finally deliver in the last stretch to achieve SDG 14 and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Thank you.


ECOSOC · Chair [1:00:54]:

I thank Her Excellency, the Permanent Representative of Palau, Speaking on behalf of the OSCE, now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of European Union to be followed by Canada. European Union, you have the floor.


EU · EU [1:01:08]:

Mr. President, Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, I am speaking on behalf of the European Union and its member states. The candidate countries Montenegro, Albania, Ukraine, the Republic of Moldova, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Georgia, as well as Monaco, align themselves with this statement. The ocean remains in crisis, and without action, we risk our own future. We therefore need to step up our collective action to achieve SDG 14. The EU and its member states welcomed the successful 2025 UN Ocean Conference last month in Nice. Our commitments now need to be translated into action, and today we would like to focus on 3 concrete action areas where we are taking action. First, First, the EU and its member states have generated significant momentum for the BB&J Agreement and its entry into force. We will also contribute at least €40 million to support developing countries in their efforts to ratify and implement the agreement. Second, we have developed the first version of the digital twin of the ocean, a unique tool that helps us better understand the ocean. In addition, we have launched a new ocean observation initiative that provides vital data to everyone who relies on the ocean. Third, the European Ocean Pact was presented last month in Nice. This holistic strategy aims to better protect the ocean. It will also promote a thriving blue economy and support the well-being of people living in coastal areas through a cross-cutting, science-based approach to ocean governance. Mr. President, these are just a few examples of what the EU and its member states are contributing to achieve SDG 14. We call on all countries to join us in this common endeavor and to accelerate their own actions too. SDG 14 is central to achieving many other SDGs, as well as our goals under the Paris Agreement and the Kanming-Montréal Global Biodiversity Framework. Finally, we wish to underline the centrality of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, which establishes the overarching legal framework within which all activities in the ocean and seas must be carried out.

I thank you.


ECOSOC · Chair [1:03:15]:

I thank the distinguished representative of European Union. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Canada, to be followed by United Republic of Tanzania. Canada, you have the floor.


Canada [1:03:29]:

Thank you. As many in the room, Canada's ambitions for SDG 14 include protecting and conserving marine ecosystems, ensuring sustainable fisheries, reducing pollution, safeguarding at-risk whale populations, and strengthening the global ocean conservation. Partnerships are key and have helped bring us more than halfway of conserving 30% of the ocean in Canada by 2030. This includes Indigenous leadership on conservation and innovative financing achievements. For example, the Mamalilikwla First Nation and federal and provincial governments work together to protect unique and fragile marine ecosystems in the province of British Columbia. The Mamalilikwla First Nations are traditional stewards of the area. The First Nations guardians are also trained to help implement federal policies and procedures, guided first and foremost by their nation's ancient laws respecting the creatures of the water and the land. Plastic pollution has become one of the most urgent and visible threats to the ocean health. It chokes marine ecosystems, endangers wildlife, and threatens the livelihood of coastal communities. As a signatory of the G7 Ocean Plastics Charter, Canada committed to addressing the growing problems of plastic in the ocean. Canada was honoured to host the fourth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee on Plastic Pollution in Ottawa last year. And we look forward to working with all of you on, uh, to land the global agreement on plastic pollution later this year in Geneva. Canada has also been working towards addressing ghost gear, a significant source of the marine debris. We are one of the first countries to have a mandatory reporting of lost fishing gear through a user-friendly app. We have removed almost 2,500 tons of ghost gear from the water, and we are working to develop and implement a ghost gear action plan by 2027. On a personal note, I grew up by the ocean, and regardless if you did or not, if you're an island state or a landlocked country, the ocean health impact impacts all of us, since if we can't protect the ocean, we're not protecting our planet. Thank you.


ECOSOC · Chair [1:05:52]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Canada. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the United Republic of Tanzania, to be followed by women's major group. Tanzania, you have the floor.


United Republic of Tanzania [1:06:06]:

Thank you, Honourable President. The United Republic of Tanzania is richly gifted with the marine and freshwater ecosystems from the vast Indian Ocean coastline to the Great Lakes of Victoria, Tanganika and Nyasa. These ecosystems are not only a cornerstone of our biodiversity, but also critical to food security, employment, climate resilience, and tourism, especially for the community that depend on small-scale fisheries. In line with SDG 14, our government has taken bold steps to conserve and sustainably use marine resources. Key action include: expanding marine protected areas such as Zamafia Island and marine parks, restoring mangroves and coral reefs in the Rufiji Delta and along Zanzibar coastal, enhancing community-based fisheries governance through seasonal closure, gear restriction, and satellite monitoring to combat illegal, unreported, unregulated fishing, and adopting a national ban on single-use plastic since 2019. These initiatives are deeply interlinked with other SDGs, yet challenges persist. Marine pollution, rising sea level acidification, and underfunded enforcement continue to threaten our coastal ecosystem. We therefore join others in calling for scaling up predictable financing for ocean-based climate and biodiversity action, strong science policy interface, and technology transfer for sustainable marine management. At the point of— at the midpoint of Agenda 2030, protecting our oceans is essential for sustainable development and humanity survival. We must act urgently and collectively to safeguard them for future generations. I thank you.


ECOSOC · Chair [1:08:16]:

I thank the distinguished representative of United Republic of Tanzania. Now I give the floor to distinguished representative of Women Major Group, to be followed by Papua New Guinea. Women Major Group, you have the floor now.


Women Major Group · Geheke Shabasu [1:08:33]:

Thank you, Mr. Chair. Your Excellencies, distinguished delegates and colleagues, my name is Geheke Shabasu and I'm speaking on behalf of the Women's Major Group. The health of our oceans is collapsing, and with it the lives and livelihoods of millions of women and girls who are the invisible backbone of marine communities. We therefore demand the full implementation of SDG 14B and the urgent recognition of small-scale fisheries and coastal communities, especially women, as essential guardians of marine ecosystems, food and water security, and cultural survival. Women and girls are expert stewards of ocean, sea, river, lake, and aquatic systems, yet our knowledge is ignored, our labor undervalued, and our contributions underfunded. Traditional intergenerational knowledge, largely held by women in coastal communities, is critical to resilient, sustainable ocean management. This knowledge rooted in care must be protected from displacement by extractivist, militarized, top-down policies. The war in the Black Sea reminds us oceans are not just collateral, they are silent victims of conflict. We demand the demilitarization of oceans for peace, for gender justice, for survival. We call for a feminist, community-led water governance model based on ecological justice, human rights, and intergenerational equity. All marine protected areas under Target 3 of the Kunming-Montréal Global Biodiversity Framework must uphold the free, prior, and informed consent of ocean-dependent communities. Women's formal leadership must be embedded in all governance structures with sustained funding for women-led and Indigenous-led solutions. A gender transformative approach to SDG 14 is no longer optional. It is urgent and necessary. Without women and girls in all our diversity at the helm, there can be no sustainable ocean policy. In fierce solidarity with all women and girls resisting oppression and colonization, and with all women and girls defending the ocean, the earth, and life itself, I thank you.


ECOSOC · Chair [1:10:40]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Women's Major Group. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Papua New Guinea, to be followed by Associations of Caribbean States. PNG, you have the floor.


Papua New Guinea [1:10:57]:

Mr. President, as a large archipelagic state, the ocean is Papua New Guinea's lifeline—for our people, our home, our identity, our economy, and the ecosystem that sustains our wellbeing. That is why it forms an integral part of our National Development Blueprint and supports our focused efforts to deliver on the SDGs, including SDG 14. The wanton destruction of the ocean ecosystem through harmful practices such as IUU fishing, pollution, ocean acidification, and sea level rise as a consequence of climate impact, and the poor support for SDG 14 investment are but critical concerns that require our urgent and undivided support to protect the ocean ecosystem. It is for this rationale that last month in France at UNOC III, Papua New Guinea signed the BBNJ Agreement and committed to ratify it this September. We are working endlessly to deliver on this. Capacity building, marine scientific data and marine technology transfer including investment in women marine scientists, are areas we need support as we build our national institutions and human resources. This will contribute to effective ocean governance and conservation. Mr. President, in the fisheries sector, my country continues to strengthen our conservation measures with regional economic cooperation and partnership through our Parties to Nauru Agreement, the Pacific Islands Forum, East New Britain Initiative, and the Trilateral Port State Measures Agreement. We are also working towards signing the WTO Fisheries Subsidies Agreement before the end of this year. We have also announced in UNOC III that we are opposed to deep-sea bed mining, and this we stand firm. Our vision for ocean governance extends to fostering sustainable blue economy that benefits genuinely our people. This means having to develop our resources onshore and add value to our fisheries resources for our people. Finally, Mr. President, we support the role of traditional and indigenous knowledge, and this needs to be better supported as we implement the SDG 14. To conclude, Papua New Guinea strongly calls for an all-of-society approach for the SDG 14, as governments alone cannot deliver on this. And I thank you.


ECOSOC · Chair [1:13:26]:

I thank His Excellency the Permanent Representative of Papua New Guinea. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Association of Caribbean States, to be followed by Norway.


ACS · ACS [1:13:53]:

Excellency, distinguished delegates, greetings on behalf of the Association of Caribbean States, an intergovernmental mechanism that covers 35 countries from the Greater Caribbean with a formal mandate to contribute to improving ocean governance. The Caribbean Sea is a key part of our wealth. It unites us and we are proud of it as much more than a body of water. It is the economic and ecological and cultural heart of the millions of people that live, work, and feed, and also dream alongside the sea. Fisherfolk, local tourism families that depend on the mangroves to protect their homes. We talk about life that is interlinked with the health of the oceans. From this perspective, SDG 14 is a promise of dignity. Fulfilling it with real actions Sufficient resources and environmental justice is essential to guarantee basic human rights. This is why from the Association of Caribbean States we propose three lines of action. First, transforming problems into solutions. The region is facing challenges such as the proliferation of sargassum. However, we also are generating innovative responses. We have driven the creation of a local subcommission on sargassum and we are promoting a multi-country system to address and tackle the issue to help it become a solution. Secondly, inclusive global ocean governance that recognizes the Caribbean Sea as a special zone for sustainable development. Through this commission that has this mandate, we have strengthened regional cooperation to tackle priority challenges such as sargassum. Marine pollution, the loss of biodiversity, and climate change. We're also making progress in updating the technical and legal studies that will support the official appointment of the Caribbean Sea as a special protected zone alongside the BBNJ and the Convention Montreal Group on Biodiversity Framework. It will also place people at the heart of action, with the oceans. Life below water is intrinsically linked to life on land. Preservation of the sea is key to the well-being of people. It represents protection for health, protection for equality, and other guarantees. I thank you. Thank you.


ECOSOC · Chair [1:16:28]:

I thank the distinguished representative of associations of Caribbean States. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Norway, to be followed by Russian Federation. Norway, you have the floor.


Norway [1:16:43]:

Thank you, Mr. Chair. The ocean connects us all. It sustains life, drives climate and weather systems, and connects economies and people. But without rules, it cannot be governed, and without corporations, those rules cannot work. That is why UNCLOS, the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, remains our constitution for the ocean. The relevance of this legal framework has only grown. The UNCLOS is supported by the final declaration at the recent UN Ocean Conference in Nice in 2023. The international community established the BBNG agreement, which showed us that multilateralism works. Norway is proud to have ratified the agreement. We expect the critical milestone of 60 ratifications to be reached. This is a legal threshold, but also a statement of our commitment to the rule of law, to healthy and productive ocean, and to global cooperation. But legal frameworks alone are not enough. Science indicates that increased global temperatures combined with overfishing and pollution could lead to irreversible consequences for the ocean. Therefore, Norway welcomes the OECD's recommendation on eliminating governmental support to illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing. Norway is also heavily vested in the success of the Plastic Pollution Treaty negotiations. Concluding an effective Plastic Pollution Treaty in August will be a win for multilateralism, the environment, and human health. Our future depends on safeguarding the ocean. Let's ensure our actions reflect that truth. Truth. I thank you.


ECOSOC · Chair [1:18:49]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Norway. Now I give the floor to distinguished representative of Russian Federation, to be followed by Portugal. Russian Federation, you have the floor.


Russian Federation · Youth Delegate · Tarina [1:19:04]:

Distinguished President, distinguished delegates, my name is Tarina. I am a youth delegate of the Russian delegation at the HLPF. Young people are a key resource for achieving SDG 14. The political declaration of the UN Oceans Conference in Nice underscored the need to involve young people and provide them with access to knowledge and skills as well as to decision-making with relation— with regard to the oceans. This is an invitation to the youth to become drivers of change, to identify and propose innovative and unconventional solutions. For the Russian youth, this is not just empty words. We are already taking real action. In Russia, we've already established the Youth Water Council, which works on ocean problems. And young experts from Mogimo, MGU, and other top Russian universities are taking part in monitoring and environmental discussions, including at the international level. Thus, young people in our country have become part part of the reform mechanism. The Youth Council on Sustainable Development, which reports to the Special Representative of the President with regard to international organizations on sustainable development, operates on the same principle. Youth provide their vision of how to attain 2030 Agenda. However, the world continues to encounter serious obstacles. Over the past few years, it's become clear that SDG 14 is one of the most underfunded goals. And although UN resolutions do support the involvement of young people, in practice they lack channels that could help us exercise this right. But this is also an opportunity for young people. We must create projects to— and we call on young people to join Water and Oceans Councils, to proactively initiate projects for marine ecosystem conservation, to engage in dialogue, and to create platforms platforms for exchange of information and ideas. Young people are not just future leaders but also effective agents of change. We regret that certain— certain delegation decided to politicize the constructive discussions in this meeting, and we call for refraining from this approach toward discussing SDG 14 and once again affirm Russia's dedication to the sustainable use and conservation of the world's oceans. Thank you.


ECOSOC · Chair [1:21:20]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Russian Federation. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Portugal, to be followed by Oman. Portugal, you have the floor.


Portugal [1:21:33]:

Thank you, Mr. President. Portugal aligns fully with the call for inclusive, science-based, and transformative action to reverse the current decline in ocean health. And realize the full potential of SDG 14. Almost a decade into the 2030 Agenda, our ocean continues to face mounting pressures from overexploitation and pollution to the accelerating impacts of climate change. These challenges demand a renewed response grounded in urgency, strengthening partnerships and integrated solutions. The 2025 UN Ocean Conference provided encouraging momentum, notably with the advancing entry into force of the BBNJ agreement and growing recognition of the ocean's central role in the global climate and biodiversity agendas. Portugal ratified the BBNJ and has already achieved 27% of its protected— of protected maritime areas, 5 years ahead of the target. Portugal believes that science and innovation are fundamental. The launch of our AERIUS nano satellite for ocean observation illustrates how emerging technologies can enhance marine monitoring, particularly in marine protected areas. This achievement reflects the strength of partnership between government, academia, and the private sector. At the international level, we support scientific cooperation through through the Atlantic International Research Center, AIR Center, and invest in human capacity via the UN Portugal Ocean Fellowship, now in its second edition, with a focus on ocean governance and blue economy, especially for SEEDs and LDCs. Going forward, bridging implementation gaps through inclusive financing, robust institutions, and coherent policy frameworks remains essential. We also emphasize the value of leveraging interlinkages between SDG 14 and SDGs 3, 5, 8, and 17. SDG 14 must be seen as part of a broader integrated approach to sustainability. Portugal remains fully committed to this vision. I thank you, Mr. President.


ECOSOC · Chair [1:23:54]:

I thank His Excellency the Permanent Representative of Portugal and for this intervention. Now I give the floor to distinguished representative of Oman to be followed by Philippines. Oman, you have the floor.


Oman [1:24:13]:

Ladies and gentlemen, the Sultanate of Oman reiterates its national commitment to the preservation of maritime life and combat all forms of pollution. We support all efforts to restore environmental stability and the natural balance by adopting laws and systems to regulate the use of the oceans and to ensure that life within them can continue. The sea is— a key part of our vision for the future and is aligned with the SDGs of the UN. This commitment incarnates our national and international responsibility, including a number of policies to preserve coastal and marine areas, to combat overfishing and other issues. We have set up 13 protected maritime areas. And we're also preserving aquatic life as well as other measures to support mangroves and other species of life. We're undertaking surveys and studies and aquaculture campaigns and we're also restoring the coral reefs. We also have a blue carbon initiative, which is a pioneering national initiative to ensure that we are carbon neutral and to strengthen our ability to adapt and to protect marine zones. It's about finding a balance between this preservation and sustainable development. Thanks to our approach also to preserving international peace and through strategic placement in the Sea of Oman and the Arabian Sea, we are working to ensure that shipping lanes remain open and to combat harmful practices. We stand ready to cooperate nationally and regionally nationally and internationally to support this for the good of humanity as a whole.


Vice President [1:26:38]:

I thank you. Representative Oman, now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Philippines to be followed by Ireland. Philippines, you have the floor.


Philippines [1:26:48]:

Thank you, Mr. Vice President. We thank the panelists, discussant, and moderator for their valuable insights. As an archipelagic state and maritime nation, the Philippines highlights the importance of the effective implementation of SDG 14. Ocean health determines sustainability of our biodiversity and marine environment. The fisheries sector directly impacts on food security, maritime trade on commerce, seafaring on livelihoods, and maritime security on ensuring that our rights, freedoms, and entitlements are upheld and protected. Climate change, unsustainable fishing, pollution, and coastal development affect the ocean's health. Likewise, regional maritime tensions compound these pressures, derailing progress in achieving SDG 14. In dealing with these challenges, the Philippines believes that upholding the rights, freedoms, and obligations of states under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea is paramount. We must strengthen integrated ocean governance, anchored on UNCLOS and its implementing agreements, including through the early entry into force of the BB&J Agreement. In the Philippines, we pay great attention to ensuring the conservation and sustainable use of our marine environment through, among others, enhancing the management of 3.14 million hectares of marine protected areas and landmark legislation that institutionalizes the measurement of our natural resources, including our marine ecosystems.

However, challenges remain, and we need synergy in our global efforts.

We must tirelessly work to enhance cooperation, ensure sufficient funding, leverage innovation, and empower our peoples and communities as true stewards of the ocean. Our collective commitments at UNOC III To unite for urgent action for our ocean must guide us moving forward. Thank you, Mr. Vice President.


ECOSOC · Chair [1:28:57]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Philippines. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Ireland, to be followed by United Arab Emirates. Ireland, you have the floor.


Ireland [1:29:11]:

Thank you, Chair. Ireland aligns itself with the statement of the European Union and has the following to add in a national capacity. Ireland recognizes that the health of our oceans is essential for people, prosperity, and a thriving planet. Ireland's vision is for an ocean that is clean, healthy, biologically diverse, sustainably used, supports coastal communities, and is resilient to the effects of climate change. It's vital that we deliver on commitments adopted in the NIS Ocean Action Plan at the recent Oceans Conference and build on the progress achieved in the BBNJ Agreement, which Ireland is strongly committed to and is arranging to ratify. Ireland has embedded a focus on the sustainable blue economy in our international development policy and in our second strategy for partnership in small island developing states. Deep sea mining is without question among the most significant challenges facing our oceans. Before any future exploitation takes place, it is essential that a robust regulatory framework is in place to protect the marine environment, that the scientific knowledge base is sufficient to allow for informed decision-making. We reaffirm our commitment to the International Seabed Authority, which is the only body authorized under international law to regulate DC mining on the international seabed. To help achieve 30% protection of Ireland's seas by 2030, Ireland aims to publish Marine Protected Areas legislation and is also starting to work on a plan under the EU Nature Restoration Regulation which aims to protect 20% of the EU's land and seas by 2030. Ireland recognizes that our societies and our lives are intrinsically linked to the health of the ocean. We must work together to meet the demands of sustainability, food production, and the ambitions for a sustainable blue economy, and take urgent action against the triple threat of climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss. Thank you.


ECOSOC · Chair [1:30:54]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Ireland. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of United Arab Emirates, to be followed by Austria. UAE, you have the floor.


United Arab Emirates [1:31:14]:

Ladies and gentlemen, Excellencies, in the UAE, especially in Abu Dhabi, we have committed to implementing SDG 14 as a national priority supported by policies and scientific foundations as well as sustainable financing. Abu Dhabi has established itself as a regional center, a— on the front lines of marine life rehabilitation. By restoring ecosystems through mangrove planting and launching the world's largest campaign for coral reef restoration with the goal of planting 4 million zoasms by 2030. These are areas that are very rich in biodiversity and are powerful allies in combating climate change. Our National Framework for Sustainable Fisheries, based on very accurate data from two decades, has contributed to a significant increase in the Sustainable Fishery Index from 8.9% in 2018 to 97.4% by the end of 2024. This qualitatively demonstrates that political will, when it is combined with science, is capable of restoring an environmental balance and achieve sustainability in our action. In addition, Abu Dhabi hosts the UAE Blue Carbon Fund, which was launched in 2023 and aims to restore ecosystems such as mangroves and seagrass meadows. In closing, our experience demonstrates that protecting the marine environment is not a luxury, but rather a strategic investment in resilience. However, we— if we want to move forward, we need collective commitment. So let us work together to scale up initiatives that are effective. And let us move forward at the pace that our oceans demand. Thank you.


ECOSOC · Chair [1:33:34]:

United Arab Emirates. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Austria, to be followed by Suriname. Austria, you have the floor.


Austria · Member of Parliament · Petra Beyer [1:33:44]:

Thank you very much, Mr. Vice President. My name is Petra Beyer, a member of the Austrian Parliament. And maybe some of you think now, what the hell does a member of parliament of a landlocked country does care about the ocean? And I care, and not just me, also my government cares about the ocean because it's so obvious, it's clear that we must care, all of us. We are aware that about half of the oxygen of every breath we take comes from the ocean. We are aware that about 4 billion people are dependent on marine proteins, and we are aware that the ocean has a tremendous mitigating impact on the climate catastrophe. It would be much harder if the ocean wouldn't work. And that's just 3 out of hundreds reasons why also landlocked countries must care about the ocean. And I think it's important also to say that we know that only a healthy ocean can provide us with all these benefits. So that's the reason why to care. And because of this, I can share the good news that Austria is doing the utmost to also ratify the BBNG by the end of the year, so please count us in, in the 60s who are necessary to have. In addition, also allow me to share our position about the deep seabed mining. We are convinced that a precautionary pause is necessary until the environmental, ecological, and socioeconomic impacts are not researched and associated impacts, mostly negative impacts I assume, are fully understood. Taking all this into account, also landlocked countries like Austria are obliged to protect the ocean like all of us. And in concluding, let me also mention that I'm with a parliamentary NGO, Parliamentarians for Global Action, where we— it's New York-based— where we try to educate and train parliamentarians How to legally protect the ocean. I think we are quite successful in spreading our message and raising awareness among those who at the very end have to take the legal decisions to make the correct and right policies. So just in case if anybody of you has like-minded or ocean warriors that are parliamentarians, let us know. I'm happy to connect. Thank you very much.


ECOSOC · Chair [1:36:16]:

I thank honorable member of the Parliament of Austria for her interventions. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Suriname, to be followed by FAO. Suriname, you have the floor.


Suriname [1:36:30]:

Thank you, Chair. Our rich marine and coastal ecosystems sustain our fisheries, protect our communities, and link us to to the wider region through the North Brazil Shelf large marine ecosystem. Yet crises from COVID-19 to climate-driven coastal erosion have tested our resilience. New Global Diversity Commitments, COP outcomes, and technologies for ocean monitoring remind us that to reach SDG 14 by 2030, We must act with greater urgency and smarter partnerships. We need a strong science-policy-society interface where research, indigenous knowledge, local communities, and policymakers work together. Suriname's Fisheries Management Plan and National Mangrove Strategy reflect this approach, but we must scale up, share data, and include everyone who depends on these resources. Key barriers have slowed us down: delays in passing laws, weak enforcement, land-based pollution, and unsustainable activities like sand mining. That is why we are pushing through new legislation, including our Aquaculture Act, and stepping up enforcement against illegal fishing. Suriname is moving forward with marine Spatial planning and a sustainable blue economy that creates green jobs, protects our coasts, and strengthens resilience. By protecting our mangroves, we help communities adapt to climate change and support livelihoods, showing how SDG 14 links directly with SDG 13 on climate action and SDG 15 on ecosystems. Sri Lanka is also developing its offshore oil and gas sector. For sustainability does not mean— for us, sustainability does not mean stopping development, but it means balancing it wisely. Strong ocean governance, environmental safeguards, and responsible planning are essential to ensure that our ocean stays healthy during Driving resilience and growing and inclusive growth. Thank you.


ECOSOC · Chair [1:39:03]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Suriname. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of FAO, to be followed by Poland. FAO, you have the floor.


FAO [1:39:16]:

Thank you, Mr. President. Excellencies, distinguished delegates, ladies and gentlemen. Oceans are critical sources of food and livelihoods, but aquatic food systems must be transformed to fully contribute to the SDGs. Around 600 million people rely on aquatic food systems for livelihoods, and 14.3 billion people depend on aquatic foods for at least 20% of their animal protein. These foods offer essential nutrients that improve health outcomes, including birth outcomes, cognitive development in children, and reduced risk of cardiovascular and neurological diseases. In face of hunger, malnutrition, the intensity and frequency of climate shocks and environmental degradation, aquatic foods are transformative solution for a healthy, sustainable future. Oceans absorb about one-third of CO2 and support nearly 300— sorry, 3,500 species used in aquatic food systems. Sustainably managed resources enhance climate resilience and global food security. Action is needed to meet the SDG target 14.4, as overfished stocks are increasing. In 2021, 62.3% of marine stock were within biological sustainable levels, a 2.3% decline since 2019. Yet 77% of marine landings came from sustainable stocks when weighed by volume, which shows that their effective management enables recovery. While progress is underway on SDG Target 14.6, eliminating illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing and harmful subsidies requires stronger enforcement, implementation of the FAO Port States Measures Agreement and the Voluntary Guidelines of Transshipment, the WTO Fisheries Subsidies Agreement, and investment in fisheries management systems vital to food security and livelihoods, especially. Small-scale fishers often face unequal access to resources or poor working conditions. Accelerating national action plans based on FAO's small-scale fisheries guidelines can empower small-scale operators and indigenous peoples. FAO's Blue Transformation Framework to address food security, poverty, and sustainability is recognized among countries and other stakeholders. In particular, scaling sustainable agriculture value chains And public-private investment in technology and innovation is essential to deliver safe, nutritious food and a thriving ocean economy. Thank you very much.


ECOSOC · Chair [1:41:40]:

I thank the distinguished representative of FAO. Before I give the floor to Poland now, colleagues, let me inform you that due to the high number of inscriptions received. The list of the speakers is now closed. No further inscriptions can be accommodated. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Poland, to be followed by Türkiye.


Poland · Youth Delegate [1:42:09]:

Poland, you have the floor. Mr. President, distinguished panelists, I have the honor to speak to you as a youth delegate of Poland. Let me begin by thanking you for this panel, especially for highlighting the need to fill the gap between already existing commitments, legal framework, and local implementation— and lack of implementation. What I see is that as a global society, we have become addicted to plastic, to the fact that it is cheap and readily available. Building on the outcomes of the Nice Ocean Conference, I would like to highlight the importance of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee on Plastic Pollution, holistic approach approach to addressing the entire life cycle of plastics, from production to disposal. As much as all of us, our schools and institutions need a mindset, mindset shift toward the care of the natural environment and a drastic change in consumer patterns, I believe that only reducing plastic production, particularly of single-use plastics, is key to mitigating this problem at its source. Recycling without limiting production and consumption will not, not be possible to reverse the negative impacts on the environment. Currently, approximately 75% of cumulative, cumulative plastic production between 1950 and 2017 became plastic waste. Furthermore, according to the OECD, only 9% of the world's plastics is actually recycled. The fact that humans pollute the marine environment with millions of tons of plastic each year year, not even counting nanoplastic and not reflecting further on the fact that irresponsible mass production is a major factor in the pollution of local water supplies across the globe, reflects our collective failure to responsibly manage the resources already in our possession. The ocean is a shared responsibility, and I look with hope for the establishment of the Global Plastic Pollution Treaty as well as stepped-up efforts toward entry into force of BB&J agreement. I thank you.


ECOSOC · Chair [1:44:18]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Poland, and now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Türkiye, to be followed by Suzela. Türkiye, you have the floor.


Türkiye [1:44:31]:

Thank you, Mr.

Chair. As one of the most underfunded and off-track goals, SDG 14 demands our urgent and transformative action. As a country surrounded by seas and located in the climate-sensitive Mediterranean Basin, Turkey is experiencing the intensifying impacts of climate change, including floods, droughts, and wildfires. We are committed to aligning our environmental and development policies with our net-zero target for 2053. Over the past decade, several barriers have hindered progress. Yet we believe this has been also a time of opportunity. The adoption of global frameworks such as the BBNJ Agreement and the Kunming-Montréal Global Biodiversity Framework as well as the Sevilla Outcome Document gives us a renewed platform for action. Turkey is actively contributing to this global momentum. We launched the Blue Plan 2053, designated 2.5 million hectares as marine protected areas, and conduct biodiversity research in 13 protection zones. With 455 national monitoring stations, we assess the health of marine ecosystems in line with global standards. Our Zero Waste Blue initiative, championed by our First Lady Emine Erdoğan, chair of the UN Secretary-General's Advisory Board on Zero Waste, has significantly reduced marine litter. Türkiye now ranks third globally in the Blue Flag beaches. Under the Mediterranean Action Plan of UNEP, we have established a climate change regional activity center to advance nature-based solutions and assess funding mechanisms for climate action. The groundbreaking decision of COP22 of Barcelona Convention in Antalya in 2021 to designate the Mediterranean as an emission control area for sulfur oxides is a pioneering model for other regions. Last but not least, we would like to underline the UNCLOS is not the only legal framework to regulate all activities in oceans and seas. Turkey, as always, remains ready and willing to continue working with the international community in accelerating ocean action in national, regional, and global levels in light of international law and best practice examples. Let us build on the outcomes of the 2025 UN Ocean Conference and accelerate our joint efforts to protect, cherish, and sustainably manage our oceans for today and for future generations.


ECOSOC · Chair [1:46:44]:

Thank you. I thank the representative of Türkiye. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Switzerland, to be followed by Senegal. Switzerland, you have the floor.


Switzerland [1:46:59]:

Excellences, Ladies and gentlemen, although it is landlocked, Switzerland is dependent on the quality and sustainable use of marine ecosystems. Switzerland is committed internationally to ensure the sustainable use of the seas and to strengthening the rules for protection of the oceans and their resources. Since 2016, Switzerland has been a member of the FAO Committee on Fisheries where we actively to support sustainable fishing and aquaculture on a global scale. In light of the risks of serious and irreversible harm, in accordance with the precautionary principle, Switzerland has taken a position in favor of a moratorium on mining in international waters at the International Seabed Authority. Deep sea mining should not begin until we have a better scientific understanding of its potential harmful effects. Another global problem is plastics pollution. Switzerland is the host of the forthcoming session of the Negotiating Committee for a treaty against plastics pollution, and Switzerland is thus committed to an effective agreement with life cycle measures to prevent plastic waste and microplastics from ending up in the ocean. Geneva, as an international city and a UN hub, offers an ideal environment in which to foster strategic partnerships to facilitate a global solution to this global challenge. I thank you.


ECOSOC · Chair [1:48:49]:

I thank the representative of Switzerland. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Senegal, to be followed by UNEP. Senegal, you have the floor.


Senegal [1:49:02]:

Merci. Thank you, Mr. President. We play a special role— oceans play such a role in supporting humanity, and Senegal has a new vision of Senegal a just, sovereign, prosperous state with strong values in four domains, including maritime fishing, aquatic infrastructure, ports, and others. We've made efforts to achieve SDG 14, including improving the early warning system to protect small fishers from extreme events at sea, resilience of transformation of aquatic products, as well as better storage of fishery products and management of marine waste, including abandoned gear. And we also have a natural resource management project for our coasts and forests. We also are disseminating scientific data Together with our partners, we also are developing a blue culture among actors for research, administration, and use of the oceans. We also are promoting mutually beneficial cohabitation— coexistence between different uses of the oceans, including the oil and gas sectors and fisheries, through marine spatial planning, which is currently underway. We are also evaluating and updating our national Fisheries and Aquaculture Adaptation Strategy with a 2024-2027 plan that incorporates new challenges, including the issue of blue carbon sequestration, restoration of marine ecosystems and mangroves, as well as rehabilitation of coral reefs, managing maritime transport, and other important measures. We note that the priority remains a sustainable management based on the principle of sustainability and transparency to optimize the health of the oceans and protect its resources. With digital tools, we are providing regular data and collecting regular data for fisheries and marine ecosystems, In closing, Senegal has been a leader— I think the mic was cut off for the speaker.


ECOSOC · Chair [1:51:37]:

I thank the representative of Senegal. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of UNEP, to be followed by Spain.


UNEP [1:51:44]:

UNEP, you have the floor. Mr. President, Excellencies, distinguished delegates. This year has marked several milestones in advancing ocean governance. Including the 2025 UN Ocean Conference, an increasing number of ratifications of the BB&J Agreement. The third UN Ocean Conference provided a renewed sense of urgency and direction. To build on this momentum, we must move swiftly from commitment to action. The political declaration highlights interlinkages between ocean, climate, and biodiversity and affirms the full importance of effective implementation of the Kunming-Montréal Global Biodiversity Framework. It also introduced key initiatives including the One Ocean Finance Facility, accelerated BB&J ratification, and the 30 by 30 Ocean Action Agenda. Implementing these initiatives requires concrete policies, financing, and integration into national strategies, and clear stakeholder engagement, particularly with coastal communities, small island development states, indigenous people, and youth. UNEP sees three clear priorities. First, Scaling up financing. Investments in marine protection restoration sustainable ocean economy must be significantly scaled up to meet the ambition of SDG 14. Second, enhancing data and science-based solutions. The IPCC, IPBES, and the newly established Science Policy Panel on Chemicals, Waste, and Pollution play a key role in supporting evidence-based ocean governance and to better understand and respond to the drivers of marine biodiversity loss ocean pollution and climate impacts. And third, creating more integrated oceans governance to effectively manage marine resources is critical to amplify impact and efficiency across multilateral environmental agreements affecting the ocean. For example, bridging regional governance frameworks for areas within national jurisdiction with global agreements, managing resources beyond national jurisdiction and with other biodiversity MEAs, will ensure a more cohesive, collaborative, and whole-of-society approach. Let us continue to work together to ensure the world's oceans remain a source of life, livelihoods, and resilience for generations to come. Thank you.


ECOSOC · Chair [1:53:57]:

I thank the representative of UNEP. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Spain, to be followed by Costa Rica. Spain, you have the floor.


Spain [1:54:07]:

Distinguished listeners, the recent UN Oceans Conference 2025, UNOC3, in Nice has rallied unprecedented political commitment at the highest level in defense of the oceans. But we must step up implementation of concrete actions so that the seas can continue to play their replaceable role in regulating the globe's climate and the balance that allows life on Earth. We appeal to states' responsibility as a keystone of the oceans conference and for the achievement of SDG 14. To do this, we must start from 3 priority lines of action. First, each country must adopt concrete measures at the national level backed by science. Spain is already making progress declaring 5— 3 new Red Nature 2000 protected spaces with the aim of achieving our target of 30% by 2030 as undertaken in the Kunming-Montréal Framework. It's worth highlighting also that we have approved an area of 1.2 million square kilometers as the main regulatory lever for the maritime sector to achieve a sustainable blue economy. We also have the Blue Fund for Mediterranean cooperation. And we mustn't forget about the importance of scientific investment in research. Thirdly, it's essential we continue building an international regulatory framework to better protect our oceans. Spain was the first country in the European Union to ratify the BB&J agreement, and we look forward to its full adoption in the coming months. Despite progress, new threats such as deep sea mining or plastics pollution are jeopardizing our multilateral vision. Spain was one of the first proponents of a precautionary pause or moratorium— to stop underwater mining until regulations including adequate guarantees have been approved. Spain, together with the other countries of the EU, supports the approval of an ambitious international agreement that contributes to reducing plastic pollution in the marine environment. We must continue to make progress together and redouble our multilateral efforts working with science, governments, industry, and society as a whole to restore oceans and seas and ensure that marine ecosystems can continue to serve as a haven for life and a source of well-being for humanity. I thank you.


ECOSOC · Chair [1:56:24]:

I thank the representative of Spain. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Costa Rica, to be followed by Lebanon. Costa Rica, you have the floor.


Costa Rica [1:56:36]:

Gracias, señor presidente.

Thank you, President. There can be no sustainable development without a healthy ocean. SDG 14 is not a standalone goal. It is the blue thread that weaves through our fight against climate change, hunger, poverty, and biodiversity loss. But we are running out of time and also excuses. Allow me to share 3 key messages. First, we cannot allow the momentum generated by the 2025 United Nations Oceans Conference, UNOC3, co-hosted by Costa Rica and France, to fade. The political declaration adopted by consensus calls on us to act with constant solidarity and urgency. UNOC 3 mobilized concrete commitments, inclusive partnerships, and brought us closer to the 60 ratifications needed for the BBNJ agreement. Second, oceans sustain all life on Earth. Their health derive from— drive, sorry, employment, food security, development and climate action. Investing in this is urgent, smart, and morally imperative. Third, achieving SDG 14 requires more financing, more technology, and more cooperation. We have promoted partnerships with youth, indigenous peoples, and coastal communities, and we welcome the commitments undertaken, but without accountability, they will remain mere promises. The follow-up mechanism agreed in the political declaration will be key. President, we call for the prompt conclusion of negotiations for a treaty to end plastics pollution, and we invite countries that have not yet done so to join the 37 states that have declared the need for a precautionary pause on deep sea mining. The ocean cannot wait for more statements or declarations. It demands implementation. Costa Rica will continue to champion science-based decisions and solutions for multilateral governance of the ocean. Protecting the ocean is a test of our collective will and of our planet's survival. I thank you.


ECOSOC · Chair [1:58:49]:

I thank the representative of Costa Rica. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Lebanon, to be followed by IUCN. Lebanon, you have the floor.


Lebanon [1:59:01]:

Monsieur le Président, Excellences, Excellencies, distinguished delegates. The oceans, seas, and maritime resources are, must remain a priority for all of us, an absolute priority. In Lebanon, a Mediterranean country, this responsibility is a sacred duty within our culture, education, and national strategy. Climate change, marine pollution, and ocean level rise, as well as acidification, are undermining our maritime resources, and they're major challenges. Science, technology, and AI can be used to make progress toward the SDGs. Marine biodiversity is also a priority. Lebanon takes active part in the— took active part in the 3rd UN Oceans Conference Nice, and on the sidelines of that conference, we signed an agreement on marine biodiversity. Lebanon is determined to ratify this agreement by next October. The entry into effect of this instrument will strengthen our commitment to conserve and sustainably exploit the oceans and maritime resources. Lebanon, Lebanon underscores the importance of sustainably strengthening scientific capacity for developing countries and wants to promote a real exchange in data as well as innovative financial mechanisms that are accessible for developing countries and middle-income countries. To save our blue planet, multilateral cooperation is crucial for integration of ocean sustainability in our climate strategy. Forward to engage in the water conference next year. Thank you.


ECOSOC · Chair [2:00:45]:

I thank the representative of Lebanon. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of IUCN, to be followed by Malaysia. IUCN, you have the floor now.


IUCN [2:00:56]:

Thank you, Chair. Excellencies, distinguished delegates, the International Union for Conservation of Nature would like to congratulate the co-hosts France and Costa Rica for the organization of a very successful third UN Oceans Conference. The unprecedented attendance by 66 heads of states and over 130,000 people in the green zone is a testament to the deep connection that each one of us feels to our one global ocean. UNOC3 was proof that multilateralism is delivering results. In Nice, the international community made significant steps towards the entry into force of two landmark agreements, BB&J and the WTO agreement on fisheries subsidies. The ocean urgently needs global leaders to accelerate action. This is why IUCN calls on member states to join the High Ambition Coalition for the BB&J agreement, which is a platform for visionary leaders essential in maintaining momentum and in creating a peaceful, collaborative space to share experiences and seek support for future proposals in the BBNJ framework. IUCN would also like to reiterate the call heard many times here today for the speedy ratification and implementation of BBNJ. And in this regard, we'd like to raise awareness about the technical assistance facility under the European Union's Global Ocean Programme. This mechanism is designed to help partner countries ratify or accede to the BBNJ agreement prepare for its implementation, and access expert ocean science and policy advice through targeted support. With regards to the WTO agreement, this historic step must be seen in a wider context of a structural reform of our global economy. A new nature-positive economic model will necessarily build on a sustainable blue economy, one that enhances ocean health, empowers communities, spearheads transformation, and delivers long-term economic resilience. Finally, in an increasingly polarized world where disinformation and false narratives dominate our daily lives, we must come together to ensure that scientific truths are upheld. In this regard, it is essential that we accelerate steps to establish an international platform on ocean sustainability. Thank you.


ECOSOC · Chair [2:03:19]:

I thank the representative of IUCN. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Malaysia, to be followed by Ghana. Malaysia, you have the floor.


Malaysia [2:03:30]:

Mr. President, Excellencies, Malaysia places strong emphasis on protecting marine ecosystems and ensuring the sustainability of life below water. Fisheries are vital to national food security with capture fisheries playing a major role in overall production. As of May 2025, 5.5% of Malaysia's marine areas are protected under the national legislation and is working towards its target of conserving 10% of its water by 2030. A policy document blueprint is is being prepared that will identify suitable marine areas for protection based on scientific evidence. Malaysia remains strongly committed to combating illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing. We continue to strengthen national legislation by amending existing laws and regulations and ensuring that enforcement measures are robust. And effective in protecting marine resources. In February 2024, Malaysia has officially deposited its Instrument of Acceptance for the Protocol of the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies under the World Trade Organization. It underscores the nation's commitment to ending subsidies that contribute to IUU. Malaysia actively participates in the ASEAN Coordinating Task Force on the Blue Economy and supports the ASEAN Blue Economy Implementation Plan, which is expected to deliver mutual benefits across the region. Mr. President, moving forward, Malaysia will continue to regularly conduct marine stock assessments and to ensure that effective management measures are in place, supporting the sustainable development and long-term health of ocean resources. With that, I thank you, Mr. President.


ECOSOC · Chair [2:05:44]:

I thank the representative of Malaysia. Colleagues, in order to ensure that all speakers can deliver their statements, and because we have a lot of still many inscriptions, and so we are going to limit the time for 2 minutes from now on. So now I would like to give the floor to a distinguished representative of Ghana to be followed by Disaster Risk Reduction, UNDRR.


Ghana [2:06:20]:

Thank you, Excellencies. Ghana's solution is not only a vital resource, but a frontline of both opportunity and vulnerability. In 2022, Ghana became one of the countries in the world to report on SDG indicator 14.11.b, plastic debris density, using citizen science data. The data informs our national reporting, guides policy design, and fosters community ownership of the marine environment. Ghana generates about 1.1 million tons of plastic waste annually, with a fourth ending up in the oceans. In 2024, we launched our Circular Economy Framework for Plastics, which was supported by UNIDO and Global Environment Facility for waste prevention, reuse, and to guide investment. In an attempt to address overfishing and other unregulated practices, we are implementing a marine fisheries management plan with components including seasonal closures. And this year Ghana ratified the WTO agreement on fisheries subsidies. We are also developing a sustainable ocean plan to provide food security, climate resilience, economic stability, and the protection of marine biodiversity. Our commitment remains unwavering as we focus on science-based marine spatial planning, local consultations, and international collaborations. Excellencies, we no longer have the luxury of treating the ocean as a siloed agenda. We invite you to join us in the face of daunting odds. We believe that with courage, partnership, and innovation, we can turn the tide. Thank you.


ECOSOC · Chair [2:08:12]:

I thank the distinguished representative of Ghana. Also, thank you for maintaining the time limit. And now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of UNDRR, to be followed by Italy.


UNDRR [2:08:27]:

Mr. President, as we take stock of progress on SDG 14, we must recognize that ocean health and disaster resilience are deeply intertwined. Climate-driven hazards such as sea level rise, ocean acidification, and intensifying storms are already reshaping coastlines, threatening marine ecosystems, and putting millions of people, particularly in SIDS and coastal communities, at heightened risk. From UNDRR's perspective, disaster risk reduction is not peripheral to the ocean agenda. It is central to protecting marine biodiversity, preserving livelihoods, and sustaining the socioeconomic fabric of vulnerable communities. The resilience of oceans and coastal ecosystems cannot be delinked from the resilience of the people who depend on them. Nature-based solutions such as restoring mangroves and coral reefs are proving to be powerful buffers against ocean hazards. At the same time, marine pollution, including plastic waste and microplastics, are eroding these natural defenses, weakening ecosystem services and increasing exposure to disaster risks. Hazards like ocean acidification and saltwater intrusion must now be fully integrated into risk-informed development planning. To deliver on SDG 14, we must do 3 things differently: prioritize coastal and community resilience as integral to ocean action, including through ecosystem-based DRR and resilient infrastructure in high-risk areas; Invest in scientific knowledge, marine technology, and early warning systems to enable anticipatory action. Link disaster risk reduction, climate action, and sustainable ocean governance through integrated policies. Healthy oceans are not only planetary necessity, they are the frontline of defense against disasters. Thank you.


ECOSOC · Chair [2:10:24]:

Thank the representative of UNDRR. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Italy, to be followed by Indigenous People Major Group. Italy, you have the floor.


Italy [2:10:37]:

Distinguished Chair, colleagues, thank you for giving us the floor and to the panelists for their insightful remarks. We cannot agree more on the critical importance of healthy marine environments, and we firmly believe that effective ocean protection lies in strengthening the capacity of nations to manage their own marine environment sustainably, enacting marine spatial planning and area-based management including marine protected areas, as well as to overcome fragmented governance. We recognize the role of regional organizations, especially regional marine conventions, as key drivers of change. In the Mediterranean region, with the support of our Mediterranean partners, we are addressing land-based pollution as well as pollution due to transboundary movements and disposal of hazardous WIST. Not least among these is the Action Plan for the Management of Marine Litter, the first binding regional instrument on this issue. At national level, we have officially initiated the ratification process for the BB&J Agreement and are actively implementing measures to achieve the targets of the Kunming-Montréal Global Biodiversity Framework. At UNEP III, Italy presented 13 voluntary commitments for a total of €115 million aimed at providing financial and technical support, prioritizing the Mediterranean region, youth, and small island developing states. I conclude my intervention by reaffirming Italy's full support to the completion next August in Geneva of the ongoing negotiations for the definition of a legally binding international instrument on plastics, including those in the marine environment, which will complement rather than overlap with existing international and regional instruments on plastic pollution. I thank you.


ECOSOC · Chair [2:12:20]:

I thank the representative of Italy. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Indigenous Peoples' Major Group, to be followed by China.


Indigenous Peoples' Major Group [2:12:30]:

Thank you, Mr. President. I speak on behalf of the Indigenous Peoples' Major Group. Life below water is vital to life on Earth, yet its ecosystems face increasing threats from climate change, biodiversity loss, tourism, and unsustainable resource exploitation. Addressing these challenges requires robust governance frameworks that integrate diverse perspectives, including the vital contribution of Indigenous peoples whose knowledge and stewardship have safeguarded marine ecosystems for generations. In various processes and outcome documents and agreements, including the recently concluded UN Ocean Conference in Nice, The importance of Indigenous knowledge is strongly referenced. While we welcome these references, our rights over lands, waters, and resources are often diminished in practice. Recognition of Indigenous knowledge must go hand in hand with the recognition of our inherent and collective right to our resources, including the right to free, prior, informed consent and self-determined development. Customary governance systems of Indigenous peoples especially in marine and coastal ecosystems, continue to safeguard biodiversity and key ecosystems despite systemic marginalization and decision-making impacting our identity and livelihood. These systems must be recognized as legitimate and equal. Indigenous peoples also join the call for a moratorium on deep-sea mining. The interconnectedness of ocean, climate, and biodiversity necessitates a stronger commitment to a human rights-based approach and further elevation of Indigenous knowledge. Let us move beyond symbolic inclusion and commit to structural transformation through direct financing, legal reform, and respect for Indigenous self-determination. Thank you.


ECOSOC · Chair [2:14:21]:

I thank the representative of Indigenous Peoples' Major Group. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of China, to be followed by Mexico. China, you have the floor.


China [2:14:34]:

President, at present, global SDG implementation is lagging behind and SDG 14 is among the most underfunded.

Meanwhile, the international maritime order is impacted by unilateralism and global ocean governance faces severe challenges. China appreciates France and Costa Rica for holding the 2025 UN Ocean Conference in June this year in Nice, France. Countries should effectively maintain the positive momentum of the conference, deepen international maritime cooperation, and jointly achieve SDG 14.

In June this year, Vice President Han Zheng of China led the delegation to UNOCSE in Nice, advocating jointly making the ocean peaceful and secure, universally beneficial and prosperous, a platform for inter-civilization exchange, and clean and beautiful. China will continue to strongly support developing countries, in particular SIDS, in stepping up ocean-related capacity building.

The delegation hosted the thematic side event Approaching an Intelligent and Aspiring Ocean: New Science-Based Actions for Sustainable Futures and launched relevant public services. On how to advance the implementation of UNOCCS III's outcomes and SDG 14, we wish to propose the following.

Uphold the international maritime order.

As an extensive legal instrument on maritime affairs, UNCLOS and other international treaties and customary international law constitute the main pillars of the global maritime order in modern times.

However, a certain country, out of selfish interests, chooses to apply UNCLOS selectively, disregards the collective efforts of the international community, and blatantly violates the principle of common heritage of mankind. Faced with the unilateral maritime Hegemonism parties should all the more stay united, hold high the banner of multilateralism, and make joint efforts in the joint journey. Second, balance conservation and use of— for the sustainable development of the oceans. Third, strengthen international cooperation and step up capacity building for developing countries.

Thank you, President.


ECOSOC · Chair [2:16:37]:

I thank the representative of China. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Mexico. It will be good to be followed by Germany. Mexico, you have the floor.


Mexico [2:16:47]:

Mexico is a country of two oceans with more sea area than land and more than 11,000 kilometers of coastline. Thousands of people whose culture and livelihoods depend directly on the sea and so for us protecting the oceans is not just an environmental task, it is an ethical duty. It is a commitment to future generations. During the Third United Nations Oceans Conference, UNOC III, Mexico presented ambitious commitments. We updated our national policy on seas and coasts. We've launched an environmental restoration program focused on mangroves, reefs, and dunes that covers hundreds of thousands of kilometers. We also have a national beach cleanup campaign. We join the initiative for a silent ocean in the face of the threat of plastic pollution and the Silent Ocean call from Nice. We are currently protecting 22% of our marine areas and we strongly support the global goal of 30% by 2030 so that that we can protect at least 30% of our oceans by 2030. We are also moving towards consolidating new community conservation operations such as fishing refuges and strengthening traceability and marine governance with a new general law on sea and national fishing refuges which already has 27 agreements in place. However, we recognize that we are still facing profound challenges ocean acidification, the threat of underwater mining, the lack of adequate funding, and the weak inclusion of oceans in educational programs. For this reason, Mexico urgently is appealing to the international community first to strengthen regional and intergenerational scientific cooperation. The speaker's microphone has been cut off. Thank you.


ECOSOC · Chair [2:18:52]:

I thank the— I thank the representative of Mexico. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Germany, to be followed by Morocco. Germany, you have the floor.


Germany [2:19:07]:

Mr. President, Excellencies, distinguished panelists, and delegates. Germany is fully aligned with the statement by the European Union and its member states. It is clear to all of us that the international community is not on track to achieve SDG 14. Ambitious and accelerated action nationally and in close international cooperation is key. UNOC III in Nice has given an important boost to central processes in the international marine protection and the sustainable use of the ocean. Let us carry forward in this spirit. We wish to highlight four important processes. Firstly, the BB&J Agreement must be ratified and quickly implemented. Germany will be party to the agreement prior to the first COP. We are working intensively to prepare ratification and national implementation at the same time. Through the International Climate Initiative, we will support partner countries in the Global South in developing proposals for future high seas protected areas under the BBNJ agreement. Secondly, we strongly encourage WTO members to ratify the 2022 Fisheries Subsidies Agreement. With just 6 more ratifications needed, we stand on the brink of securing a landmark treaty that addresses harmful subsidies and contributing to overfishing. Its entry into force would allow us to fully achieve SDG target 14.6. Thirdly, the deep sea must remain protected. During UNOC III, more states than before, a total of 37, declared that they support a precautionary pause or moratorium to protect the deep sea from commercial mining. Only the International Seabed Authority has the mandate to improve activities in the deep sea. I thank you.


ECOSOC · Chair [2:21:09]:

I thank the representative of Germany. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Morocco, to be followed by Colombia. Morocco, you have the floor.


Morocco [2:21:20]:

Mr.

Chair, we meet today at a crucial juncture following the adoption of the NIS Plan of Action—NIS Action Plan for Oceans and the Compromiso de Sevilla.— two important blueprints that should guide our collective action toward ocean sustainability. We look forward for the effective implementation of the commitments made in Nice during UNEP III, and we commend the co-hosts France and Costa Rica for their efforts in this regard. Mr. Chairperson, with over 3,500 kilometers of coastline along the Atlantic and Mediterranean, Morocco enjoys a strategic maritime position. Under the wise leadership of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, marine protection has become a key pillar of Morocco's sustainable development policy. We have established several marine protected areas to conserve biodiversity, and we have also reinforced the fight against illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing through enhanced surveillance and monitoring. Furthermore, Morocco has taken an important step by completing the ratification of the BBNJ agreement. Reaffirming its commitment to the cause of oceans. As a nation with a deep-rooted maritime history, Morocco is deeply committed to advancing ocean sustainability across Africa, with the conviction that international cooperation is key. In this context, His Majesty King Mohammed VI launched the Atlantic Initiative, an ambitious vision to offer landlocked Sahel countries access to Atlantic Ocean through a dedicated Maritime Corridor. Along the same lines, the Morocco-Nigeria Atlantic Gas Pipeline aims to create an energy corridor and unlock new geoeconomic opportunities for West Africa. Reflecting this royal vision, Morocco also organized the Africa Ocean Week and the Blue Africa Summit in Tangier in October 2024, aiming to unify African positions ahead of major multilateral conferences. In concluding, I would like to reiterate Morocco's commitment to promote Africa-led ocean solutions rooted in responsibility and—


ECOSOC · Chair [2:23:26]:

I thank the representative of Morocco, and now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Colombia, to be followed by IAEA. Colombia, you have the floor.


Colombia [2:23:37]:

Muchas gracias, señor Presidente. Thank you, President. To progress with actions for effective implementation of Agenda 2030, my country believes that economic development and social and environmental sustainability should be integrated into a productive transformation that diversify our economies, sustainably use natural resources, and be more intensive in clean technologies and other innovations. This is particularly important for coastal areas where reality reminds us that there can be no development if we don't look after the ocean. The ocean is not just another resource. It is food, life, identity, economy, and more for many, many people. The false dichotomy should actually be rooted in justice for the territories. Colombia has two oceans and is a mega-diverse country. This is why We recognize that SDG 14 is a strategic priority. This is why the state has undertaken not only a political commitment on this internationally, but we have also played a role as leader in numerous multilateral fora. We're leading negotiations on subsidies for fishing. We're also working on a legally binding instrument to put an end to plastics pollution, and we had an active role in the negotiation of the BB&J agreement. And so in, you know, '13, as well as going beyond our voluntary goal, we have undertaken another, restoring 13,000 kilometers of mangrove forests. President, protecting the oceans is not an option. It is a political, economic, and environmental obligation from Colombia, we will continue to drive transformative action based on social justice, territorial equity, and international solidarity. I thank you.


ECOSOC · Chair [2:25:39]:

I thank the representative of Colombia. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of IAEA, to be followed by France. IAEA, you have the floor now.


IAEA [2:25:48]:

Thank you very much, Mr. President, Excellency, colleagues. The IAEA, through its Marine Environment Laboratory and partnership with member states, employs nuclear and isotope techniques to study, assess, monitor, and mitigate the impact of human activities on marine ecosystems. For example, combating marine pollution. Through its New Tech Plastic initiative, the IAEA helps countries track marine microplastic pollution and its source using nuclear technique, including isotope tracing, to understand the behavior and the fate of microplastic in marine food chain. We are working in cooperation with the UN Environmental Program of Global Partnership on Plastic Pollution. We continue develop harmonized methodology for coordinating action to monitor marine microplastic pollution and contribute to the ongoing negotiation for the development of a legal funding instrument. Addressing ocean acidification, the IEA Ocean Acidification International Collaboration Center provided critical data on increasing acidification, helping vulnerable coastal and island nations to adapt and protect marine biodiversity, standardized sustainable fishing and food security, and also we protected coastal and marine biodiversity. Finally, the IEA also has a, you know, the very important scientific forum this year in Vienna, titled—


ECOSOC · Chair [2:27:49]:

I thank the representative of IAEA. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of France to be followed by Uganda. France, you have the floor now.


France [2:28:05]:

Thank you, Mr. President, ladies and gentlemen. Institute of Research for Development, on behalf of which I am speaking, believes that research and scientific cooperation on an international level play a pivotal role for better understanding marine ecosystems and to guide public discussions on the understanding of the oceans. Only 1.7% of our national research budget on average goes toward the oceans, but it is essential to focus on financing especially marine modeling. But we need to do more than produce knowledge. We must share it and translate it into concrete solutions adapted to the realities of each country and territory, as well as the needs and aspirations of populations depending on the oceans. As a research establishment for development committed together with our partners in Africa, Latin America, and Asia and the Pacific, as well as in— abroad, we believe that responding to ocean challenges must be based on a collaborative approach that combines scientific community, students, professionals, decision-makers, including often marginalized voices from coastal communities in the Global South and future generations. The Oceans Congress that took place at Nice led to a number of recommendations, including how to effectively and permanently protect at least 30% of the oceans, as well as how to support a blue economy that is based on science. The first Oceans COP, just to take place next year, will be a pivotal moment for examining oceans, the key actions and concrete solutions to bring to life scientific recommendations. We have taken active part in establishing a starfish— the barometer called Starfish for the health of the oceans. We are dedicated to protecting oceans to make sure they benefit the largest number of people possible. Thank you.


ECOSOC · Chair [2:30:12]:

I thank the representative of France, and now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Uganda. Uganda, to be followed by a major group on children and youth.


Uganda [2:30:22]:

Uganda, you have the floor. Mr. President, Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen. Uganda, as a landlocked country, recognizes the importance of SDG 14, Life Below Water, especially through Lake Victoria, which supports over 40 million people in East Africa with food, water, and livelihoods. However, our ecosystems face threats like overfishing, pollution, including plastics and agrochemicals, climate change, and land degradation, all of which harm biodiversity, health, and economies. To address this, Uganda has strengthened fisheries enforcement with digital tools, restored wetlands, improved water quality monitoring, and works regionally through the Lake Victoria Basin Commission. We are also finalizing our blue economy strategy to sustainably manage our fresh water resources. We see SDG 14 as interconnected with SDG 3, SDG 8, and SDG 17, highlighting the links to health, decent work, and partnerships. Therefore, Mr. President, Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, Uganda calls for including inland waters in global ocean financing, capacity building for landlocked nations, and partnerships that foster innovation and local ownership. Let's work together to protect all water bodies— oceans, lakes, and rivers— for current and future generations. I thank you.


ECOSOC · Chair [2:31:56]:

I thank the representative of Uganda. Now I give the floor to the Major Group on Children and Youth. India, and to be followed by United Kingdom.


Children and Youth Major Group · Aishwarya Kandasamy [2:32:09]:

Thank you, Mr. President. I am Aishwarya Kandasamy, representing the Ocean Youth Constituency of Major Group of Children and Youth. In face of the escalating climate crisis, ocean action is no longer optional. It is existential and central to any meaningful global response. However, it is deeply unsettling to witness how far our actions fall short of the commitments we have pledged to uphold. As your allies, subjects, and most importantly, as the generation upon whom the burden of your decisions will fall, we, the youth, urge you to first ratify the High Seas Treaty and bring it into force to protect over 60% of our old ocean. Second, despite its ecosystem services, the ocean remains one of the most underfunded areas of sustainable development. This is not just a funding gap; it is a failure of global prioritization that we must urgently correct. Third, design adaptation strategies and loss and damage mechanisms that prioritize and protect the rights of Indigenous coastal communities. As the rising tides erase ancestral lands and vanishing shores threaten centuries of culture, justice demands that their knowledge, voices, and rights be placed at the center of our response. Fourth, we call on all nations to ensure that the youth are meaningfully included in every stage of ocean-related policymaking. This includes ensuring designated youth engagement in BBNJ processes, implementation of outcomes of UNOC III, and the membership of youth constituency at the UN Oceans. Lastly, while the mining code is being deliberated right now in the International Seabed Authority, we urge all nations to adopt a precautionary moratorium on deep sea mining because when it comes to planet's most fragile and least understood ecosystems, ignorance is not a license to exploit. We must choose to restrain over irreversible damage. Furthermore, we call upon countries with deep sea exploratory contracts to disclose the environmental impacts of their operations. Thank you.


ECOSOC · Chair [2:34:13]:

I thank the representative of Children and Youth Major Group. Now I give the floor to Her Excellency, Permanent Representative of United Kingdom, to be followed by Indonesia. Your Excellency, you have the floor now.


United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland · Permanent Representative [2:34:29]:

Mr. President, Excellencies, I'd offer 3 reflections on advancing SDG 14. First, multilateral momentum is critical to scaling up ocean action. The UK supports protecting at least 30% of the ocean by 2030, We're consulting on strengthening protection of marine areas at home, including on bottom trawling and fishing. We're working internationally to support ratification of the BBNJ agreement and champion the High Ambition Coalition for Nature and People. Second, science is the cornerstone of effective effective ocean governance. The UK's marine science community is helping us understand emerging threats from plastic pollution to climate impacts and shape evidence-based solutions. We're committed to securing a strong Global Plastics Treaty this year and tackling illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing through international cooperation. Third, finance plays a pivotal role. Through our investments via the Blue Planet Fund, we're working with partners to leverage public and private finance to support sustainable livelihoods and protect vulnerable marine ecosystems, aligning financial flows with the Global Biodiversity Framework and the Paris Agreement is essential to building resilient blue economies. The United Kingdom remains committed to working with all of you to safeguard our ocean and deliver SDG 14.


ECOSOC · Chair [2:36:23]:

I thank you. I thank the Permanent Representative of the United Kingdom. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Indonesia, to be followed by Chile. Indonesia, you have the floor.


Indonesia [2:36:42]:

Mr. President, as the world's largest archipelagic country, Indonesia is committed to preserving and sustainably utilizing its vast marine resources for the well-being of our people. We have established 29.9 million hectares of marine protected areas as of 2024, on track to meet the global target of conserving at least 10% of marine area by 2030. We continue to strengthen ecosystem-based ocean management through marine spatial planning and fisheries management areas. Capture fisheries production remains within safe limits, below 80% of maximum sustainable yield, while aquaculture sustainability support national fisheries productivity. To support small-scale fisheries, Indonesia is enhancing rights, access rights, and improving financial inclusions through cooperatives and community-based insurance, recognizing small fisheries— small fishers' critical roles in food security and livelihoods. Ladies and gentlemen, Indonesia upholds international maritime law, having ratified and implemented implemented the UNCLOS and actively engaged in international cooperation on sustainable marine resource management. We are advancing the blue economy as driver to sustainable growth, promoting environmental responsibility, responsibility, and empowering coastal communities. Indonesia is also taking decisive actions to reduce marine plastic pollution through improved waste management infrastructure and circular economy initiative. With only 5 years left to reach the 2030 Agenda, stronger global collaboration is crucial. We must share knowledge, exchange technology, and work together to ensure a sustainable future. Thank you.


ECOSOC · Chair [2:38:43]:

I thank the representative of Indonesia. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Chile. To be followed by Saudi Arabia. Chile, you have the floor now.


Chile [2:38:55]:

President, Chile has a state policy for sustainable use and protection of the oceans. We believe it is an ethical, political, and economic responsibility that defines the country that we want to build. Marine life is a cross-cutting axis that coordinates synergies across several SDGs by linking the conservation of biodiversity with food security, the fight against climate change, and generating decent jobs, especially for thousands of women who work in artisanal fishing and shore harvesting. Biodiversity in the ocean is as vast as the threats facing it. In this context, we welcome the progress towards the entry into force of the BBNJ agreement. Convinced as we are of the— key role of the Global South for its implementation, we have offered Valparaiso as a safe harbor for the Secretariat, an inclusive space facing the Pacific Ocean, the largest on the planet. We also reiterate our call for a precautionary pause on deep sea mining. This is necessary to assess impacts, strengthen scientific basis, and establish robust regulations. Thanks to our national conservation policy, today 44% of our waters are protected with concrete examples such as the management plan for Juan Fernandez and Rapa Nui developed together with local communities. Chile is committed to contributing to ensuring that at least 30% of the global ocean is protected by 2030. Today, currently only 8% is, far from the Kunming-Montréal Global biodiversity framework goal. The next UNOCM IV conference in 2028, which we hope to co-host with the Republic of Korea, we hope to have an opportunity to celebrate better statistics and tangible progress. You can count on Chile to continue pushing an ambitious ocean agenda based on science, multilateralism, and collective action. I thank you.


ECOSOC · Chair [2:40:55]:

I thank the representative of Chile. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Saudi Arabia, to be followed by Bangladesh. Saudi Arabia, you have the floor.


Saudi Arabia [2:41:09]:

Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, may God's peace and compassion be with you. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia continues its efforts to protect the maritime environment and natural resources, and we continue to play our role at the regional and international level to attain sustainable development as part of the vision of Saudi Arabia 2030, which focuses on environmental sustainability as a priority. We place strategic importance on the marine environment. We are working to reduce marine pollution and combat overfishing under SDG 14. We also We also have the Saudi Green Initiative, which aims to protect 30% of our terrestrial and marine territory by 2030. To date, protected areas have reached more than 18% of land and 6.49% of our marine territory. We also plan to plant 10 billion trees, including 200 million mangrove trees, as well as rehabilitating degraded marine ecosystems. These efforts are grounded on a strong knowledge base with monitoring programs of the environment that cover hundreds of zones, including coral reefs, marine habitats, mangrove forests, and seagrass. In 2022, we launched the Decade Expedition to explore the Red Sea, which revealed peerless diversity in marine life, including blue holes and rare fish species and microorganisms, to strengthen the knowledge-based marine economy. Our efforts are based on international partnerships as well as modern technologies, which helps to protect vulnerable areas as well as monitor climate change and develop an effective governance system. These efforts reflect our commitment to environmental protection and conserving our marine wealth, ensuring it for future generations. Thank you.


ECOSOC · Chair [2:43:14]:

Thank you, Representative of Saudi Arabia. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Bangladesh, to be followed by Liberia. Bangladesh, you have the floor.


Bangladesh [2:43:23]:

Mr. President, for Bangladesh, a country of rivers, estuaries, and over 700 kilometers of coastline, life below water is central to our national survival. Our food systems, our economy and our resilience to climate change. More than 17 million people depend on our marine and coastal ecosystems for their livelihoods, particularly in fisheries, transport and ecotourism. These ecosystems are under severe threat from coastal erosion, rising salinity, plastic pollution and destructive fishing practices. Our Exclusive Economic Zone holds immense promise, but only 5.9% of it is currently designated as Marine Protected areas, well below the global 10% target. Without urgent intervention, the collapse of marine biodiversity could also undermine SDGs 1, 2, and 8, especially for coastal women and indigenous fishing communities. But we are acting on it, Mr. President. Bangladesh has adopted the Blue Economy Policy that promotes promoting sustainable fisheries, marine spatial planning, coastal afforestation, and low-impact ecotourism. Our National Plan of Action Against Illegal, Unprotected, and Unregulated Fishing enhances monitoring, control, and community co-management, directly supporting SDGs 12 and 16. For SDG 13, Bangladesh is investing in nature-based solutions like mangrove regeneration and coastal green belts. This protects the biodiversity while shielding communities from cyclones and tidal surges. As we prepare for our graduation from LDC status in 2026, we call on the international community to support integrated ocean governance equitable blue finance, and marine research for countries like Bangladesh. The future of the ocean is the future for us all. I thank you.


ECOSOC · Chair [2:45:08]:

I thank the representative of Bangladesh. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Liberia, to be followed by Interpol. Liberia, you are—


Liberia [2:45:20]:

Thank you, Chair. Excellency. Liberal reaffirmed its strong commitment to Sustainable Development Goal 14, Life Below Water, recognizing that the health of our ocean is not just an environmental imperative but a matter of economic justice, climate resilience, and national survival. With more than 350 miles of coastline, Liberal coastal communities depend profoundly on the marine ecosystem for food, jobs, and cultural heritage. Our fisheries sector supports over 33,000 families, contributes to food security, and anchors the development of what we envision as a "Tribal Blue Economy"— one that sustainably harnesses the potential of our marine and coastal resources. Under our National Development Blueprint, the ERES agenda prioritizing agriculture, rule of law, education, sanitation, and tourism, the government of Liberia is actively integrating marine conservation ocean governance into broader socioeconomic planning. We are investing in mangrove resources— sorry, restoration, enhancing fisheries monitoring and licensing system, and working to reduce marine pollution, including the growing threat of plastic waste and oil discharge along our coast. Libya is also advancing efforts to align ocean protection with economic opportunities through marine ecotourism, sustainable agriculture, and climate-smart port development. These key pillars of our emerging blue economy strategy, which is currently under review to ensure alignment with Africa's Union— the African Union's blue economy framework and African Charter of Maritime Security and Safety. Nonetheless, the challenges are real and persistent. The scores of illegal—


ECOSOC · Chair [2:47:26]:

I thank the representative of Liberia. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Interpol, to be followed by Australia.


INTERPOL [2:47:36]:

Australia. Thank you, Mr. Chair. Excellencies, distinguished delegates. For far too long, the oceans have been overlooked as an area for governance. Gaps in transparency, fragmentation across jurisdictions, and legal loopholes have undermined SDG 14. They have turned the ocean into a lucrative arena for transnational organized crime. Criminal networks traffic protected marine species, They dump toxic waste with impunity, and they engage in illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing. If we are to secure a sustainable ocean for future generations, we have to confront these threats head-on. We must recognize that criminal justice and law enforcement are foundational pillars of ocean governance. Because without strong enforcement, there can be no sustainable use of the oceans. Only continued exploitation. However, no one country can police the high seas alone. That is where Interpol, the world's only global police organization, can contribute. We facilitate cross-border cooperation by connecting national law enforcement agencies through our secure communications platform known as I-24/7. We bring together coast guards, customs, environmental agencies, and police forces to disrupt and dismantle the global criminal networks exploiting our natural resources. With Interpol's support, member countries can fight these crimes together rather than in isolation. Allow me to conclude. Interpol stands ready to support its 196 member countries to end the criminal exploitation of the seas, oceans, and marine resources. Our recent participation in the 3rd UN Oceans Conference in Nice, France highlights this resolve. Together, let us work together towards the full realization of SDG 14. Thank you.


ECOSOC · Chair [2:49:37]:

I thank the representative of Interpol. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Australia, to be followed by Timor-Leste, Sierra Leone, and UNU. Australia, you have the floor now.


Australia [2:49:53]:

Thank you, Mr. President. I begin by paying my respects to First Nations people as the traditional custodians of Sea Country in Australia, and I acknowledge their enduring connection to country and the contribution of Indigenous peoples everywhere in protecting the natural environment. Australia is an island nation, so the ocean is at the heart of our national identity. It is critical to our economic prosperity, health, and social well-being, and it connects us with our region and the rest of the world. Dr. McLeod, you called on governments to move from commitments to implementation. I echo this and take the opportunity to share how we are implementing our commitments. First, we are expanding and strengthening our network of marine protected areas. Since the last UNOC in 2022, we've expanded our marine parks from 30%— 37% of Australia's ocean to 52%. Second, we are developing our Sustainable Ocean Plan, which involves extensive engagement across government, our state and territory governments, First Nation communities, and a broad range of ocean industries, conservation organisations, and the research community. And third, we are working to support and strengthen multilateral ocean governance underpinned by UNCLOS, the Constitution for the Oceans, which our panelists have rightly highlighted as an area of priority, including as our role as co-chair of the BBNJ Preparatory Commission with Belize and facilitating the UNOC III Political Declaration adopted by consensus in Nice. The Declaration outlines our collective commitment for ambitious, just, and transformative action for ocean protection. I thank you.


ECOSOC · Chair [2:51:53]:

I thank the representative of Australia. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Timor-Leste.


Timor-Leste [2:52:04]:

Distinguished Chair, Excellencies, Honorable Delegates, Ladies and gentlemen, Timor-Leste is honored to address this High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development as we unite to advance Sustainable Development Goal 14, Life Below Water. Our oceans are not just vast bodies of water, but the very lifeblood of our planet. They sustain ecosystems, regulate our climate, support livelihoods, and enrich cultures worldwide. For Timor-Leste, an island nation, The ocean is more than a resource. It is our identity, our hope, and our future. Yet today, our oceans face unprecedented threats. Unsustainable fishing depletes vital stocks. Pollution shocks marine habitats. Climate change accelerates warming and acidification. And illegal practices undermine our efforts. For small islands a state like ours. These are not distant worries. They affect food security, economic stability, and the well-being of our communities every day. In response, Timor-Leste is steadfast in its commitment to protect and sustainably manage our marine resources. We have integrated ocean sustainability into our national policies, launched a national ocean policy, and develop comprehensive plan of action focused on building a blue economy that balances growth with ecological preservation. We are expanding marine protected areas, enhancing our capacity to combat illegal fishing, and forging partnership with regional neighbors to strengthen collective ocean governance. But no country can do this alone. The ocean connects us all and it demands global solidarity. We urge the international community, especially developed nations— Thank you.


ECOSOC · Chair [2:54:12]:

I thank the representative of Timor-Leste. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Sierra Leone.


Sierra Leone [2:54:23]:

Thank you, Mr. President. Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, Sierra Leone joins the international community to emphasize the urgent need to accelerate SDG 14 actions. With more sustainable practices, oceans can serve as a catalyst for economic diversification and structural transformation. Although ocean-based economic activities benefit employment, livelihoods, and government revenues.

Low-income countries contribute only a small share of the global value added from the ocean economy. Sierra Leone loses an estimated $50 million annually to illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing—valuable resources that could otherwise be invested in developing other sectors. We therefore propose the following actions to the international community.

First, implement comprehensive and strict policies and regulations to safeguard marine ecosystems from harmful fishing practices and preserve ocean biodiversity. Second, strengthen development cooperation and improve the capacity of developing countries to maximize the real value and generate fair revenues from their ocean resources, including efforts to reduce losses and improve value chains.

Collaborating with developing countries to help them secure international fish export certificates will create new opportunities for direct fish trade worldwide.

Enhance collaboration with countries to combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing, and undertake direct actions to support ocean-based decarbonization and restore coastal and marine ecosystems.

Last but not least, tackle the structural inequalities that discriminate against and marginalize segments of the population, including women, girls, and local communities. Sierra Leone will take bold steps to protect marine areas going forward.

Thank you, Mr. President.


President [2:56:23]:

I thank the representative of Sierra Leone. Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of


UNU [2:56:31]:

Chairperson, distinguished participants, and dear colleagues. The United Nations University would like to draw your attention to the interlinkage between the SDG 3 and SDG 14. Through the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee on Plastic Pollution, and in the wake of the UN Ocean Conference in Nice last month, there is a growing interest in the impacts of ocean plastic pollution on our health. We need to deepen our understanding about this interconnectedness from scientific view. Such a multidisciplinary view will help us accelerate our efforts to achieve the SDGs, addressing the interlinkage between the SDG 3 and SDG 14. Dear Chairperson, I would like to make 5 recommendations. First, enhance awareness of policymakers, researchers, and educators on how ocean plastic pollution is affecting human health and well-being. 2. Facilitate dialogues and partnerships among stakeholders of the SDG 3 and SDG 14. 3. Explore strategies addressing the interlinkage between the SDG 3 and SDG 14, bridging initiatives taken for ocean plastic pollution and human health and well-being. 4. Identify opportunities of multidisciplinary research and education addressing the interlinkage. 5. Strengthen partnerships with higher education institutions in achieving the SDGs in line with the UN Higher Education Sustainability Initiative . To contribute to this discussion, UNU is organizing a side event on the health impacts of ocean plastic pollution tomorrow afternoon. We look forward to receiving invaluable input. Thank you very much for your attention. Thank you.


President [2:58:19]:

I thank the representative of UNU, Excellencies, distinguished delegates. We have just heard from the last speaker on the list. I now give the floor back to the moderator in order to hear a very brief final reflections from the panelists as well as his for his own concluding remarks. Mr. Ramkishna, you have the floor now.


Moderator · Kilipati Ramakrishna [2:58:46]:

Thank you very much, Mr. President, and it's been extremely instructive to listen to the member states' interventions as well as the major groups' interventions. Before I give my closing remarks, Mr. President, I would ask your indulgence to allow our co-panelists to share with us in 30 seconds one thought that they would like the member states and those present here to take away from this meeting. I would first call on Elizabeth and then on to the rest of the panel. Thank you.


Elizabeth [2:59:15]:

Thank you very much.

In 30 seconds, we have the data, we have the science, we have the tools, we have the political will, the ambition, and the successful projects. The implementation is already happening, which has been really heartening to hear in this room. I loved what the youth represented—


Moderator · Kilipati Ramakrishna [2:59:32]:

Microphone for the speaker, please.


Elizabeth [2:59:34]:

—stop talking about funding gaps and we have to talk about global prioritization. We've got to prioritize this, make it happen so that in 2030, we're not sitting here talking about the failures we made, but the successes that we've achieved. Thank you.


Moderator · Kilipati Ramakrishna [2:59:47]:

Thank you.

Thank you very much, Elizabeth. Next on is Edith Rudith. Thank you very much.


Secretary-General · Edith Rudith Lukanga [2:59:54]:

Taking up from what Elizabeth has just mentioned, I'm also calling for implementation. This is people-centered implementation of the UN commitments, especially the SSF guidelines, but also capacity strengthening of the SSF organizations at the global, regional, and national level, particularly the organizations of women such as the African Women Fish Processors and Traders Network that are centered to the ocean health. Thank you.


Moderator · Kilipati Ramakrishna [3:00:24]:

Thank you very much, Edith. Now, Charles, over to you.


Charles [3:00:28]:

Thank you, Rama. Um, so it was very inspiring. Thank you to member states and to major groups. I spoke about joining the dots, and I think I spoke about ambition. And I think what I'm hearing too is that we, we need to connect all the protection mechanisms for the ocean, increase the number of marine protected areas— we're barely over 10%. The Blue NDCs That's something that I'm looking forward to hearing from in Belém. We need to protect the ocean from illegal and undocumented and unreported fishing. We need to protect the ocean from plastics. We need an ambitious plastics treaty. So connecting all these dots is critical to protecting the ocean and making sure that we can sustainably continue to to use it and for it to give us its benefits. Thank you very much.


Speaker 140 [3:01:28]:

Mr. President, if you allow me, I just want to add a few more thoughts to what my panelists had talked about. I was struck by the sweep of the interventions and I would like to particularly pick out on the intervention by Austria. And the reason I do that is ocean occupying about 71% of the planet has tremendous influence on everything that the rest of the world does. It doesn't matter whether you're a coastal state, large island state, or a small island state, or a mountainous state, you know, as is the case with the powerful intervention by Austria. As a society, for far too long, we have looked at ocean either as a victim, that we are polluting it and we should stop doing that, or as a villain, that it causes storms, hurricanes, tsunamis, and killing us. It's time to think of the ocean as a hero that can solve so many problems that we have.


Moderator · Charles [3:02:37]:

The main things that I take away are more like the questions than answers. How can we ensure that the ocean is treated not just as a sectoral issue but as an essential infrastructure underpinning global resilience? Second, what mechanisms, whether it is the national ocean accounts or incorporating them in the nationally determined contributions or contributing to the biodiversity framework, Montreal, Kunming, part. And last, as we look toward 2030 and beyond, what are our hopes and calls to action for integrating SDG 14 into the next phase of global development agenda? With that, Mr. President, I pass the floor back to you. Thank you.


President [3:03:26]:

Thank you. I once again thank the moderator for expertly guiding this discussion today. I also thank our distinguished panelists for their excellent, very comprehensive, and insightful presentations. And above all, I thank the participants for your substantive and valuable contributions as well as commitment to accelerate and achieve the SDG 14. We have thus completed our program of work for this meeting. The Forum will reconvene this afternoon at 3 PM to continue with its program of work. Detailed information on the program is available on the SLPR website. With this, Excellencies and distinguished delegates, the meeting is adjourned.