Eastern Caribbean Regional Ocean Policy

Excerpt:

OECS Member States have jurisdiction over an extensive area of marine space along with the associated living and non-living resources therein. Such resources contribute significantly to the economies of OECS Member States and are fundamental to the wellbeing of its citizens. However, while some marine resources in these waters are clearly over utilised and therefore stressed, the economic potential of other resources is to some extent un-assessed and underutilized.

While emerging opportunities exist to enhance the contribution made by the oceans to the sustainable development of OECS Member States, it is unlikely than any one resource is sufficient to sustain development goals. An approach is needed that coordinates management across sectors and resources and integrates environmental management directly with economic development, fiscal policy and social goals. Such an approach requires a change in how we view, manage, govern and use the ocean...

This discussion document outlines options for a new Eastern Caribbean Regional Ocean Policy that will promote and guide the future sustainable use and development of the region’s marine waters and resources. The document provides an outline of the key threats and challenges faced by policy makers and managers; the basis for such a national policy; a future Vision for the ocean; and a suggested set of principles, and goals for ocean governance in the Eastern Caribbean Region. The document also highlights a number of options for institutional reform towards implementing the regional policy.