Global environmental issues are at a significant turning point with the historic announcement made at the Samoa Summit of Commonwealth Nations. The summit saw the adoption of the first-ever Commonwealth Ocean Declaration, a landmark event that highlights the importance of ocean conservation in today’s context.
Known as the Apia Ocean Declaration, the declaration calls on the 56 Commonwealth nations to protect the oceans from serious challenges such as climate change, pollution and overexploitation. It particularly highlights the importance of recognising maritime boundaries in the face of rising sea levels, a growing concern.
The main objective of the declaration is to protect 30% of the oceans and restore damaged marine ecosystems by 2030, while also highlighting the rapid completion of the Global Plastics Treaty. In addition, she advocates for the ratification of the High Seas Biodiversity Treaty, the creation of coastal climate adaptation strategies and increased support for sustainable blue economies.
Samoa’s Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata’afa highlighted the appropriateness of this oceanic declaration in the “Blue Continent of the Pacific”, a region where climate change is the greatest threat to the security and well-being of its people. Commonwealth nations, particularly small states like Samoa, face major challenges, including the existential risk posed by rising sea levels.
It is notable that the theme of environmental threat was at the centre of discussions prior to the summit, although the first few days were mainly devoted to the transatlantic slave trade in the British colonial past. This summit is particularly significant given that the Commonwealth is home to one third of the world’s population, with 49 of its 56 member states having coastlines.
Climate change challenges are affecting 25 of the Commonwealth’s members, with consequences such as rising sea levels, increasing temperatures and increased ocean acidification, impacting marine life, ecosystems and the communities that depend on them.
The Samoa Ocean Declaration therefore aims to mark a major shift in the management of marine resources, from exploitation of the oceans to their protection and sustainable management. This change of direction is essential to ensure a sustainable future for future generations.
In conclusion, this Commonwealth Ocean Declaration represents an unprecedented commitment to protecting our oceans and preserving marine lifeIt sets a standard for future international meetings, building momentum for ocean protection as we approach COP29 in Azerbaijan in November and the UN Ocean Conference next year.