Enhancing Regional Ocean Governance in the Mediterranean: Memorandum of Understanding Between UNEP/MAP–Barcelona Convention Secretariat and FAO–GFCM

This memorandum of understanding establishes a framework for cooperation between the United Nations Environment Programme Mediterranean Action Plan Secretariat to the Barcelona Convention and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations acting for the General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean. It aims to strengthen regional ocean governance through collaboration on the conservation of marine environments and the sustainable use of marine living resources. The document defines areas of cooperation including ecosystem based management, mitigation of fisheries and aquaculture impacts, protection and management of significant marine areas, integrated maritime policy and spatial planning, and legal and institutional coordination. It also outlines consultation processes, joint activities, information exchange, and procedures for implementation and review.