Webinar: Ocean Connectivity and Law

Background: The webinar is the result of NCLOS’ project focus on Ocean Connectivity. Our hypothesis has been that a common conceptual framework on ocean connectivity is needed to address, from a regulatory viewpoint, the threats the ocean is facing. 

Our research aim has been to explore a common understanding of ocean connectivity that broadens the narrative of the oceans’ zonal divisions (as reflected in the 1982 UN Law of the Sea Convention), and take into account, acknowledge, and foreground the complex interactions in the marine environment.

To reach this aim, the project has intended to: (i) explore the concept of ocean connectivity and its multiple biological, ecological and socio-economic implications; (ii) provide a critical analysis on how the law (of the sea) takes into account or disregards ocean connectivity, complete a systematic classification of legal provisions, and document the current achievements and gaps in the ocean governance regulatory system.

Structure: The Webinar is formed by two interconnected parts. In Part I we present the project results developed from the research background. In Part II we hear the voices of experts in the field of ocean and legal connectivity, to draw lessons towards to the conceptualization of an ocean-centric, and rights-based system of governance, responsive to the challenges.

Program

Event co-chaired by Ingrid Solstad Andreassen and Iva Parlov

PART I: Different models of ocean connectivity

10:00-11.40 CET

10:00-10.05

Welcome note from Elise Johansen and Margherita Paola Poto

10:05-10:25

Alexander Lott, Norwegian Centre for the Law of the Sea (NCLOS)

Marine-Biology-Centric Connectivity and Straits as Connectors of Ecosystems

10:25-10:45       

Endalew Enyew, Norwegian Centre for the Law of the Sea (NCLOS)

Indigenous Model of Ocean Connectivity and the Law of the Sea

10:45-11:05       

Jan Solski, Norwegian Centre for the Law of the Sea (NCLOS)

Anthropocentric Connectivity

11:10-11.40

Wrapping-up questions and answers       

PART II: Towards the conceptualization of an ocean-centric and rights-based system of governance

14:30-16:15 CET

14:30-14:35

Welcome note from Elise Johansen and Margherita Paola Poto

14:35-14:55       

Kristina Gjerde, International Union for Conservation of nature (IUCN), Boston MA, USA

Presentation based on publication: Rights of Nature: Perspectives for Global Ocean Stewardship

14:55-15:15       

Harriet Harden-Davies, Australian National Centre for Ocean Resources and Security (ANCORS), University of Wollongong.

Presentation based on publication: Rights of Nature: Perspectives for Global Ocean Stewardship

15:20-15:40       

Amedeo Santosuosso, The European Center for Law, Science, and new Technologies (ECLT), the University of Pavia

A sketch of a theoretical-legal background for the law of the sea

15:40-16:10       

Open discussion

Closing remarks: Elise and Margherita