In this video playlist, participants discuss how ocean management is a global public good, and why sustainable economies must include infrastructure such as sustainably managed, community-owned fisheries. Participants explore the critical importance of increased public support for SDG14 – Life Below Water – currently the most underfunded of the Sustainable Development Goals. The unique and central role of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) in building healthier oceans is examined, with participants highlighting how local communities are already leading the way in developing solutions to global ocean challenges. All participants emphasise that the work of these communities must be supported and funded if the world is to meet its ocean sustainability goals.
Dr James Fletcher (Climate Envoy, Caribbean Community Secretariat), Ilana Seid (Permanent Representative of Palau to the United Nations), Ruth Davies (UK Special Representative for Nature), and Karuna Rana (Founding Director, Big Ocean States Initiative) discuss the key points.