In an unprecedented step toward sustainable ocean management, the Ocean Coordination Mechanism (OCM) for the Wider Caribbean has officially commenced operations, heralding a transformative era for marine ecosystem governance in the region. With 17 states and nine intergovernmental organizations (IGOs) signing the groundbreaking Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), this initiative positions the Caribbean as a global leader in integrated ocean governance.
The activation of the OCM represents a historic convergence of countries and organizations committed to preserving the invaluable marine ecosystems of the Caribbean and North Brazil Shelf Large Marine Ecosystems. This coalition aims to address critical environmental challenges while unlocking vast economic, social, and ecological benefits through coordinated, sustainable ocean stewardship.
A Collective Commitment to Ocean Health
The OCM became operational following pivotal endorsements from the Government of The Bahamas on December 19, 2024, and the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO on January 14, 2025. This milestone MoU brings together nations and institutions with a shared mission: safeguarding marine biodiversity and ensuring a thriving, climate-resilient blue economy for the region’s present and future generations.
Among the 17 state signatories are prominent countries such as Antigua and Barbuda, Belize, and the United States, alongside territories like Aruba and Curaçao. The MoU also unites leading IGOs under a unified governance framework, including the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), CARICOM Secretariat, and the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS).
Vision and Strategic Objectives
The OCM is poised to redefine how nations and organizations collaborate to address transboundary oceanic challenges. By fostering synergies and improving resource allocation, the mechanism prioritizes:
- Developing a Comprehensive Ocean Action Programme: This holistic initiative will outline actionable strategies for restoring marine ecosystems and enhancing ocean-based economies.
- Launching a Periodic Reporting Mechanism: The OCM will regularly assess the “State of the Marine Environment and Associated Economies,” ensuring data-driven decision-making.
- Promoting Climate-Resilient Blue Economies: Small Island Developing States (SIDS) across the region will receive targeted support to bolster their ocean-based industries, which is critical for long-term economic sustainability and resilience against climate change.
Leaders Speak: The Importance of the OCM
Regional leaders and stakeholders have underscored the transformative potential of the OCM.
Honourable E.P. Chet Greene, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Trade, and Barbuda Affairs of Antigua and Barbuda, expressed unwavering support:
“The Ministry and by extension the Government remain committed to fostering partnerships and coordination to achieve and safeguard healthy marine and coastal ecosystems. These ecosystems are key drivers for thriving, sustainable, and climate-resilient ocean-based economies in the Wider Caribbean Region and hemisphere.”
Similarly, Dr. Didacus Jules, Director General of the OECS, hailed the OCM as a monumental achievement:
“The OECS Commission is thrilled that the Ocean Coordination Mechanism (OCM) officially came into effect, marking a significant milestone in our collective efforts to safeguard the health of the Caribbean and North Brazil Shelf marine ecosystems. The OCM will strengthen regional cooperation, promote sustainable fisheries, and enhance the resilience of our coastal and marine environments.”
Enhanced Regional Collaboration for Global Impact
The OCM’s establishment exemplifies the Caribbean’s leadership in ocean governance, setting a model for other regions grappling with marine sustainability challenges. By uniting 32 states and territories alongside global IGOs, the mechanism ensures a collaborative approach to:
- Tackling pollution and biodiversity loss
- Strengthening fisheries management
- Addressing the impacts of climate change
- Promoting sustainable tourism and economic growth
Felicia Cruz, Director of Blue Economy at Belize’s Ministry of Blue Economy and Disaster Risk Management, emphasized Belize’s dedication to the OCM:
“This endorsement underscores Belize’s commitment to the sustainable management and utilization of our ocean resources, aligning with our broader objectives of fostering a resilient blue economy.”
Catalyzing Action Through Integrated Governance
The OCM’s formalization addresses a critical gap in global ocean governance—enhanced coordination among fragmented institutions and stakeholders. Christopher Corbin, Coordinator of UNEP’s Cartagena Convention Secretariat, highlighted its importance:
“The formalization of the Ocean Coordinating Mechanism is key to strengthening relationships between the Secretariat and regional organizations involved in ocean governance. The OCM will enable more effective use of limited resources, ensuring the sustainable management of coastal and marine resources in the region.”
The Road Ahead: Expanding Membership and Influence
The OCM anticipates welcoming additional members in 2025, broadening its scope to include 11 intergovernmental organizations and the governments of all 32 states and territories within the region. This growth will further enhance the mechanism’s capacity to address complex marine challenges and drive impactful solutions.
Current signatories include:
- States and Territories: Antigua and Barbuda, Aruba, the Bahamas, Belize, Costa Rica, Curaçao, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Grenada, Haiti, Honduras, Netherlands (representing Bonaire, Saba, and Sint Eustatius), Panama, St. Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Suriname, and the USA.
- IGOs: CARICOM Secretariat, CRFM, OSPESCA, CCAD, OECS, IOC-UNESCO, UNDP, ECLAC, and UNEP’s Caribbean RCU.
Inspiring Global Action
As the Wider Caribbean pioneers this historic approach to ocean governance, the OCM inspires global efforts to preserve marine biodiversity and combat climate change. Its holistic vision, underpinned by strong partnerships and data-driven strategies, sets a precedent for integrated, sustainable ocean management worldwide.
The OCM’s launch represents more than just a regional milestone—it is a call to action for nations, organizations, and stakeholders to unite for the shared goal of healthy, thriving oceans. The journey ahead promises challenges, but the collective commitment of its members ensures a future where marine ecosystems and ocean-based economies flourish in harmony.
Written by: Jason Smith