Island States Ocean SummitSustainable Ocean Action for Resilient Islands

Island nations, from atolls to larger island economies, rely on coastal and marine ecosystems for livelihoods, food security, development, and protection from increasing ocean risks. However, accelerating pressures underscore the urgent need to transform how we plan, use, and manage marine spaces to balance protection, production, and long-term prosperity. In this context, building resilient and sustainable ocean economies represents a strategic opportunity, with sustainable ocean planning and management (SOPM) serving as a critical tool to drive integrated and evidence-based decision-making.

To contribute to this transition, the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO plays a central role in advancing ocean science and international cooperation required for effective and sustainable ocean governance. By strengthening global ocean observing systems, closing critical knowledge gaps, and supporting capacity development, particularly in Small Island Developing States, the IOC enables science-based decision-making, marine spatial planning, and integrated ocean management approaches.

It is with this shared vision that we welcome you to the Island States Ocean Summit — a unique platform to advance interregional cooperation on SOPM and define priority actions to drive implementation. The Summit outcomes will directly contribute to the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021–2030) and the broader global ocean agenda. We are honored to partner with the Nippon Foundation and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan in advancing this important endeavour, and we look forward to your leadership and engagement.

• Vidar Helgesen,
• Executive Secretary of the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO