For Fijians who depend on the ocean for food, livelihoods and economic activity, stronger protection of marine resources could have long-term importance.

Fiji is preparing to implement the BBNJ Agreement, which focuses on conserving and sustainably using marine biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction.

A two-year project, funded with US$175,000 from the Global Environment Facility, will examine Fiji’s laws, policies and technical capacity and identify areas that need strengthening.

The project will also involve stakeholders through consultations, awareness programmes and capacity building. It will run until September 2028.

The initiative is expected to help Fiji prepare for its international ocean commitments while supporting the interests of Small Island Developing States in global discussions on ocean governance.