Continuing Professional Development Series: Online Update Courses in Ocean Governance for IOI Alumni

Since its foundation in 1972, IOI has trained more than 2000 Ocean professionals, contributing towards a growing global network of trained and empowered leaders fully conversant with the latest developments in Ocean Governance, achieving a critical mass of IOI-trained professionals and practitioners. The IOI Alumni CPD Series aims to bring the latest knowledge and insights to the attention of our Alumni and to contribute meaningfully to the ongoing discourse on Ocean Governance and sustainable development.

Building on the webinar series launched in 2023, the 2024 schedule shall continue to highlight the latest developments in the ever-evolving landscape of global challenges and opportunities. Quarterly webinars are curated to enrich the knowledge of IOI Alumni with unique perspectives on the latest developments, featuring experts who guide discussion on the intersection of Ocean Governance, sustainability, and international cooperation.

Throughout the year, the IOI CPD series shall navigate key themes in the global landscape, from the triple planetary crisis to the specific challenges faced by vulnerable countries, critical discussions on the global financial system, and the current challenges to multilateralism. The hallmark of each IOI CPD webinar is the interactive learning and exchange of views with topic experts.

2024 Programme

1st Webinar: Where Skies and Seas Meet: Climate and Ocean Interdependence in Policymaking - 29 February 2024

Building on the webinar series launched in 2023, the first webinar in 2024 served as a platform to address the complex interaction between climate change and Ocean sustainability in policymaking. Held in the aftermath of COP28, the event aimed to shed light on the pressing governance challenges concerning these crucial environmental domains.

The webinar set out to articulate the urgency of understanding and harmonising climate and Ocean policies to enhance the resilience and health of the Earth's ecosphere. The global community's imperative to navigate this "blue horizon" was emphasised, highlighting the critical symbiotic relationship between climate and Ocean governance.

Throughout the session, distinguished experts and IOI Alumni shared invaluable insights, delving into key themes crucial for understanding the implications of COP28 on Ocean-related matters. Prof Simone Borg, Ambassador for Climate Action, Malta, elucidated the existing Ocean governance frameworks, scrutinising their adequacy in light of evolving climate agreements. Dr Ute Jacob, Co-lead at the Transfer Office for Marine Biodiversity Change at HIFMB (Germany), examined adaptation and mitigation strategies, emphasising the pivotal role of international cooperation in addressing biodiversity loss and climate change impacts on oceanic and coastal ecosystems. Furthermore, Dr Mark Dickey-Collas, an independent applied Marine Scientist, elucidated strategies for maintaining resilient fisheries amidst the challenges posed by climate change.

The interactive Q&A session fostered a dynamic exchange of ideas, allowing participants to engage directly with the speakers, share insights, and discuss practical implications for their respective fields, facilitating exploration of actionable solutions to the complex challenges at hand. The webinar provided participants with an understanding of the intricate interplay between climate and ocean policymaking, underscoring the importance of collaborative action and informed decision-making in tackling the multifaceted challenges posed by climate change and long-term Ocean sustainability.