EU Africa Week 2022: dialogue on ocean governance

Fostering a cross-continental Africa-Europe dialogue on ocean governance

On several occasions, starting in Abidjan in 2017, the European and the African Unions have emphasised their mutual interest in advancing a common and prosperous ocean agenda. Ocean governance, including sustainable fisheries and blue economy, is an area in which closer cooperation could benefit both continents.

In support of the UN 2030 Agenda and, in particular, Sustainable Development Goal 14 (“life below water”), and Africa’s 2063 Agenda, both continents would benefit from a joint approach emphasizing the importance of oceans and seas, not only for the safety, security, well-being and healthy environment of our societies, but also as a catalyst for socio-economic changes in the face of climate change and the pandemic.

This cross-continental dialogue amongst government officials and non-state actors could enhance mutual understanding about ocean-related priorities, whereby the two continents would have an opportunity to advance a shared agenda, working together towards a mutually beneficial partnership in favour of economic opportunities, environmental preservation and resilience to climate change. Discussions will be centred on the following questions:

• How could greater Africa-Europe cross-continental action on ocean benefit our economies and populations, while minimising threats to the environment?

• How could the two continents make the most of this decisive year and ensure a common approach is designed and deployed for the oceans?

• What are the biggest bottlenecks in relation to ocean governance to be addressed? How can the two continents work together towards a mutually beneficial partnership?

For more information on this session and to register, click here.