Conference Report: Charting a Blue Future - Trinidad and Tobago's Road to the 2025 UN Ocean Conference

Held under the theme "Charting a Sustainable Blue Future," the National Ocean Conference brought together policymakers, scientists, civil society leaders, fisherfolk, youth and the private sector to shape a common vision for the sustainable use and protection of Trinidad and Tobago’s marine resources. The conference was convened as a response to growing national recognition of the ocean’s role in climate resilience, food security, economic diversification and cultural heritage—especially for Small Island Developing States.

The two-day forum attracted a wide array of local and international expertise across marine science, ocean governance, blue economy financing, coastal zone management and climate change adaptation. Participants engaged in high-level panels, technical working groups and interactive dialogues focused on ocean health, marine spatial planning, biodiversity conservation, and the challenges facing coastal communities. The event was co-hosted by the United Nations in Trinidad and Tobago and the Embassy of France. 

Key recommendations emerging from the Conference include the development of a National Ocean Policy, enhanced legal and institutional frameworks for marine management, improved ocean data and monitoring systems, and inclusive capacity-building initiatives targeting youth and coastal stakeholders. These outcomes offer a blueprint for integrating ocean priorities into national sustainable development strategies and ensuring that marine ecosystems are preserved for future generations. The UN system remains committed to supporting the implementation of these priorities in alignment with the 2030 Agenda and the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for SIDS.