The Cartagena Convention Secretariat recently took part in the 2nd EU Sargassum Conference, held in Grenada, between October 1 and 2, 2024, where representatives from across the Caribbean gathered to address the challenges posed by Sargassum inundations in the region. During a High-Level Forum co-chaired by Grenada's Prime Minister, Hon. Dickon Mitchell, OECS Director General Dr Didacus Jules, and Mr Felix Fernandez-Shaw, Director for Latin America and the Caribbean at the European Commission, Caribbean representatives emphasized the urgent need for collective action to transform Sargassum into an economic opportunity.
Ms. Susana Perera Valderrama, Programme Officer for the Specially Protected Areas and Wildlife (SPAW) Programme of the Cartagena Convention, participated in a panel discussion coordinated by the Development Bank of Latin America (CAF), focusing on Sargassum governance in the Caribbean. During the panel, Susana highlighted the critical role of the Cartagena Convention as the only existing legally binding framework dedicated to the protection and sustainable development of the marine environment in the Wider Caribbean Region. She emphasized that the Convention not only provides a basis to promote regional collaboration for managing Sargassum inundations but also has the potential to be further leveraged to enhance cooperation and policy alignment across countries in addressing Sargassum inundations impacts. These impacts increasingly threaten marine and coastal ecosystems, local economies and human health of the Wider Caribbean Region.
Mr. Yoeri de Vries, Chair of the Bureau of the Contracting Parties to the Cartagena Convention and National Focal Point for the Government of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, presented a similar perspective during a panel discussion on Policies, Strategies and Action Plans at the Regional Level. He discussed the need for a more harmonized approach to Sargassum management across the region and praised the efforts of Caribbean governments in tackling this shared challenge. Yoeri also pointed out the importance of integrating scientific research and community engagement into regional strategies, advocating for a multi-stakeholder approach that includes governments, NGOs, and the private sector. His remarks emphasized that existing frameworks like the Cartagena Convention and its Protocols are essential tools for fostering greater regional cooperation.
The conference showcased Caribbean governments' solid commitment and leadership in addressing Sargassum inundation issues. The government of Grenada was commended for hosting such a significant event, which facilitated valuable discussions and set the stage for stronger collaboration in the future. The Cartagena Convention Secretariat remains committed to supporting Caribbean nations in mitigating the adverse effects of Sargassum inundations and promoting sustainable ocean governance through existing and evolving mechanisms.
