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UN ocean negotiations on biodiversity

25 February 2022

Proposing MP
Chelmsford
Type
Written Ministerial Statement
Department
Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office

At a Glance

Issue Summary

The statement discusses the upcoming Intergovernmental Conference in March 2022 for negotiating an International Legally Binding Instrument under UNCLOS to conserve marine biodiversity beyond national jurisdiction.

Action Requested

The UK aims to conclude an ambitious agreement by 2022, focusing on establishing MPAs and sharing benefits of research into marine genetic resources. The UK has been actively participating in preparatory dialogues and co-hosting workshops to build understanding for the negotiations.

Key Facts

  • Fourth Intergovernmental Conference takes place at UN in New York from 7-18 March 2022.
  • Negotiations aim to address marine genetic resources, area-based management tools (including MPAs), environmental impact assessments, and capacity-building & technology transfer.
  • UK delegation is led by the FCDO, working closely with Defra, BEIS, National Oceanography Centre, DfT, MoD, and Natural History Museum.
Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy