Capacity Building and Transfer of Marine Technology under the BBNJ Agreement: Key considerations for SIDS (Information Paper) #4

Publication Details

Executive Summary

Small Island Developing States (SIDS) face significant challenges due to their unique vulnerabilities and dependence on ocean resources. To fully participate in the conservation and sustainable use of marine biodiversity under the 2023 Agreement under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ Agreement), SIDS require targeted capacity-building, financial support, and technology transfer. These needs arise from their limited financial, technological, and human resources, as well as their deep cultural, economic, and ecological connections to the ocean and areas beyond national jurisdiction (ABNJ).

The Agreement establishes a framework for Capacity Building and Transfer of Marine Technology (CB&TMT), incorporating mechanisms for information exchange, decision-making, and funding. It underscores the importance of international cooperation, financing, and partnerships to strengthen SIDS’ marine conservation, sustainable resource use, and scientific capacity, while acknowledging SIDS’ specific circumstances.

As the preparatory phase moves forward and the first Conference of the Parties (COP) approaches, ensuring that SIDS can actively participate in and benefit from the implementation of CB&TMT provisions is critical. Key priorities include defining practical implementation mechanisms, fostering partnerships, enhancing information-sharing platforms, and securing sustained financial support. However, challenges remain in operationalising support structures, ensuring equitable benefit-sharing, and reinforcing collaboration within and among regions. Coordinated advocacy and institutional strengthening will be essential for integrating SIDS’ priorities into global ocean governance.

This document highlights the importance of sustained, meaningful SIDS leadership in the BBNJ process to protect their rights and interests. It offers recommendations for advancing CB&TMT implementation, including clarifying the role of the Clearing-House Mechanism (CHM), establishing terms of reference for the CB&TMT Committee, securing financial resources, and developing monitoring indicators. It also identifies opportunities to advance SIDS’ interests through targeted investment, strategic policy development, and collaborative initiatives that translate the Agreement’s commitments into concrete outcomes.

Ultimately, CB&TMT can and should empower SIDS by expanding access to funding, scientific knowledge, and technology—enabling them to enhance marine biodiversity conservation, build research capacity, and improve marine monitoring and management. Active and purposeful engagement in the Preparatory Committee (PrepCom) process will be vital for SIDS to assert their leadership and drive meaningful implementation of CB&TMT under the BBNJ Agreement.