The Final Session of the Independent World Commission on the Oceans: Our Oceans are Important

ITEM: 3
SOURCE/AUTHOR: Julian Robbins, IOC
DATE: September 10

As the International Year of the Ocean approaches its final months, the last (of a total six) session of the Independent World Commission on the Oceans took place.

The Independent World Commission on the Oceans (IWCO) was launched in Tokyo, December of 1995. Chaired by Mario Soares, former President of the Republic of Portugal, the IWCO's activities are not sigularly concerned with the importance of oceans to social and economic progress. A great deal of focus is also placed on the increasing vulnerablility and/or ecological aspects of oceans. Among the topics that were studied: exploration of the sea bed and subsoil pollution, fishing, dumping of toxic waste and the prevention of conflicts over the planets water resources just to name a few.

The Commission has cooperated closely with the United Nations, UNESCO/IOC along with other intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations throughout these sessions to achieve their objective. Nevertheless, the pressing question that still needs to be addressed is, "How will these sessions held by the IWCO manifest in real acts that will contribute towards the health and well being of our oceans?"

At least part of this answer is present in a recent publication from IWCO "The Ocean our Future: The Report of the Independent World Commission on the Oceans" (1998, Cambridge Press) outlines six main headings (coming from six study groups)establishing the structure of future directions: promoting peace and security in the oceans; the quest for equity in the oceans; ocean science and technology; valuing the oceans; our oceans, public awareness and participation; towards effective ocean governance. Among these directions,it was noted that public awareness of the vital importance of the oceans to humankind is most definitely needed and should be enhanced by giving all members of society, regardless of background the opportunity to participate in , or influence decisions on ocean affairs.

Over time, it is hoped that these categorical imperatives can be implimented into actual activities.  The IWCO and other similar bodies can play a crucial role because although the Year of the Ocean is coming to a close, the oceans will continue to remain as objects worthy of much consideration and care.