Multi-stakeholder partnerships and regional ocean governance are cornerstones for the conservation and sustainable use of the ocean. Considering the intense and growing pressure on ocean ecosystems, accelerated ocean action is needed at all scales, from the global to local level. Regional cooperation is in a unique position to facilitate connection between global policy commitments to national and local implementation.

This side event will highlight successful examples of regional cooperation, such as collaborative MPAs, for protecting marine biodiversity, fighting pollution, and mitigating climate change thus contributing to the 30x30 target. It will provide a forum to share lessons-learned from different marine regions, showcase solutions and explore challenges and opportunities faced in implementing SDG 14. Conclusions from the side event will inform discussions on regional ocean action at the 2022 UN Ocean Conference in Lisbon.