Progress report for
Sweden contributes 4 million SEK (400.000 USD) in 2022 to IOC-UNESCO for the UN Decade for Ocean Science and invests in a 10 year national research programme for oceans and water
Achievement at a glance
The SEK 4 million contribution focused on building capacity, enhancing knowledge, and developing methods related to sustainable development education, ocean science, and marine governance. It targets Least Developed Countries (LDCs) within the IOC-UNESCO framework, with three key objectives:1. Promoting active participation in the UN Decade of Ocean Science (2021–2030).
2. Strengthening marine spatial planning and sustainable blue economy capacities.
3. Improving ocean literacy for better decision-making.
Next Steps
..Beneficiaries
The Ocean Decade has enabled actions at all levels. It has to be designed and co-owned by all partners. The key direct beneficiaries of all activities implemented in collaboration with Sweden includes: - The Scientific Community - The Ocean policy and sustainable development leaders - Ocean businesses and industries - The civil society/NGOs engaged in ocean awareness - The public at large.
Actions
The initiative has led to significant progress in ocean governance at various levels, addressing ocean literacy, marine spatial planning (MSP), and African engagement in the Ocean Decade. Noteworthy achievements include:• A training program for urban planners and designers, fostering ocean literacy and inclusivity.
• Support for African countries to become active participants in the Ocean Decade.
• Regional forums on marine spatial planning that facilitated collaboration among developing countries.
This work aligns with multiple Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), notably SDG 14 (Life Below Water), SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities), and SDG 13 (Climate Action), while focusing on UNESCO's global priorities, particularly in Africa.