The Maldives is hosting a high-level Regional Workshop on the Law of the Sea and Ocean Governance, bringing together 47 officials from 12 countries to strengthen regional cooperation on marine resource governance and sustainable ocean management.
The four-day programme, running from 20 to 25 September 2025, is organised in collaboration with the Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources, the United Nations Division for Ocean Affairs and the Law of the Sea, with support from the World Bank’s TransFORM SWIOFish5 project.
Participants include representatives from regional organisations and UN agencies. Workshop sessions will cover:
- Legal foundations of the Law of the Sea
- Maritime zones and scientific underpinnings
- Shared responsibilities in ocean protection
- Sustainable blue economy pathways
- Implementation mechanisms across sectors
Speaking at the opening ceremony, State Minister for Fisheries and Ocean Resources, Aminath Hussain Shareef, highlighted the workshop’s value in building capacity and facilitating dialogue on how to harness ocean resources for sustainable development responsibly.
She noted the Maldives’ efforts to promote responsible fishing practices, support fisher communities, and enhance investment in fisheries products. “Fisheries remain integral to our economy and food security,” the State Minister remarked.
Following the regional programme, a National Training Workshop will be held focusing on the UN Fish Stocks Agreement, including training on Regional Fisheries Management Organisations (RFMOs), data exchange, and combating illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing.