The Regional Workshop on the Law of the Sea and Ocean Governance has commenced in the Maldives, bringing together experts and officials from across the region to strengthen cooperation on sustainable use of marine resources.

The four-day programme is organised in collaboration with the Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources, the United Nations Division for Ocean Affairs and the Law of the Sea, with support from the World Bank’s TransFORM SWIOFish5 project. It is being held from 20-25 September.

The workshop has drawn 47 officials from 12 countries, along with representatives of regional organisations and UN agencies. Sessions will cover key topics including the foundations of the Law of the Sea, maritime zones and their scientific basis, shared responsibilities for ocean protection, frameworks guiding ocean governance, pathways to a sustainable blue economy, and regional and sectoral mechanisms for implementation.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Minister of State for Fisheries and Ocean Resources Aminath Hussain Shareef said the programme would help participants build capacity to make the most of marine resources while also fostering regional dialogue on how these resources can drive economic development.

She noted that fisheries continues to play a central role in ensuring food security and contributing to the Maldivian economy. The State Minister added that Maldivian law now prohibits many unfair practices in fisheries, and the Government is working to empower fishermen, attract investment and promote fisheries products.

Following the regional sessions, a National Training Workshop will be held in the Maldives, focusing on implementation of the UN Fish Stocks Agreement. This will include training on Regional Fisheries Management Organisations (RFMOs), data exchange, and measures to combat illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing.