Foreword

The full and effective implementation of international law of the sea, as reflected in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and related instruments, depends on the capacity of States to effectively manage ocean spaces, resources and activities. Such implementation is also essential to meeting the ocean-related Sustainable Development Goals and targets of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, – including Goal 14, to conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development – fulfilling the commitments made under the Small Island Developing States Accelerated Modalities of Action (SAMOA Pathway) and implementing the Vienna Programme of Action for Landlocked Developing Countries for the Decade 2014–2024. However, the reports of the Secretary-General on oceans and the law of the sea clearly illustrate that capacity-building in various areas of ocean affairs and the law of the sea remains a significant need for many States, in particular developing countries.

Sustainable Development Goals:

Life Below Water

Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions