UNOC Side Event: Ocean Science Capacity as a Condition to Achieving SDG 14

Please join The Ocean Foundation at this official side event for the UN Ocean Conference.

Ocean science capacity is geographically unequal, with a small number of countries operating the majority of ocean monitoring and research programs. This inequitable distribution of capacity threatens the ability to achieve SDG 14, given that marine resources, pollution, and changing ocean conditions are not beholden to States’ borders. Limited in-country access to finance, physical infrastructure, and human resources reduces climate resilience, increases likelihood and risk of detrimental activities, and shuts off markets from emerging blue economy opportunities.

Why are international partnerships not always effective or appropriate? Why is simple reliance on technology and knowledge transfer not enough? Why is capacity development considered an auxiliary action and not a centerpiece?

This event will offer critical perspectives towards achieving more equitable ocean science capacity throughout SDG 14 implementation. Leaders from The Ocean Foundation, The United States Department of State, Eduardo Mondlane University in Mozambique, The Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission, the University of Rhode Island Coastal Resources Center, and the Pacific Community will discuss what barriers are preventing equity and what strategies should be employed across SDG 14 activities to ensure equity.

Proposed Agenda:

18:00-18:30: Networking and reception

18:30-19:15: Facilitated panel discussion

19:15-20:00 Networking and reception