Conclusions of the Workshop UNEP/EC Workshop on Area-based Management and Regional Cooperation for the Implementation of Ocean-related Sustainable Development Goals

This document synthesizes conclusions from a Brussels workshop (9–10 February 2017) on delivering ocean-related SDGs through area-based management and regional, cross-sector cooperation. It notes wide participation from UN entities, regional seas programmes, and fisheries bodies, and identifies SDG 14 as a driver for integrated, ecosystem-based governance requiring mobilized political will. Core themes include building vertical, horizontal, and multi-stakeholder partnerships at sea-basin scales; aligning regional strategies; sharing data; and reviewing performance to monitor implementation. Area-based management tools are highlighted to operationalize the ecosystem approach, strengthen coastal resilience and food security, and link land–sea issues with SDGs 6, 14, and 15. The text concludes with action points: formalize cross-sector platforms, expand information exchange, engage private sector (e.g., HELCOM “Clean Shipping”), and develop guidance for coordinated use of single- and multi-sector ABMTs.