HLPF SDG14: Collaborating towards a people-centric future for the world’s oceans

“We should recognize the vital role of oceans in food security, nutrition as well as regulation of climate change and economic development by implementing the commitments made at the UN Oceans Conference,” stated Maria Helena Semedo, FAO Deputy Director-General for Climate and Natural Resources, speaking at the Thematic Review of SDG 14 during the High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development.

Semedo stressed that, in order to achieve SDG 14, countries should, inter alia, conserve and sustainably use of aquatic resources, support small-scale and artisanal fisheries.  strengthen implementation of global agreements on climate; rebuild fisheries with a focus on recovering catches, and combat Illegal, Unregulated and Unreported (IUU) fishing. In this regard, she invited Member States to join the FAO Agreement on Port State Measures to Prevent, Deter and Eliminate IUU Fishing.

“We must be people-centric, with a need to prioritise small-scale artisanal fisheries- the engine for food security, nutrition and livelihoods for millions of poor coastal communities, as well as Small Island Developing States,” emphasized Semedo. “Strategic partnerships and cooperation can boost capacity, amplify good practices and scale-up responses, especially across developing countries.”

The HLPF review of SDG14 examined the outcome of the Ocean Conference and the interlinkages between SDG14 and its targets with other goals and targets in order to provide further political guidance and encourage action in preserving and sustainably using oceans and implementing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.