This EU-funded assignment supported the development of a new Global Ocean Programme to improve ocean governance, conservation, and sustainable use, with a focus on developing countries and Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction (ABNJ). The assignment resulted in a €40 million programme being established by the European Commission to support African, Caribbean and Pacific partners in their efforts to ratify and implement the High Seas Treaty or BBNJ. Blue Pangolin contributed as thematic lead for Area-Based Management Tools (ABMTs), Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), and knowledge management and capacity development strategies.
The assignment aimed to identify strategic, globally relevant actions that align with the EU’s Global Challenges MIP (2021–2027) while delivering long-term benefits for biodiversity, resilience, and coastal livelihoods in Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Small Island Developing States (SIDS). Blue Pangolin led analytical work to inform programme design and contributed to the development of key planning documents, including the Action Document and various Fiches, through a consultative process involving more than 100 stakeholders.
Main Deliverables:
- Thematic assessments on ABMTs, MPAs, capacity development, and knowledge management
- Inputs to the draft Action Document and Strategic Steering Committee (SSC) Fiche for the proposed Global Ocean Programme
- Stakeholder engagement across ~50 bilateral and group meetings
- Recommendations for regional coordination, technical assistance, and institutional strengthening
