This 90-minute side event at the Our Ocean Conference will focus on advancing the implementation of Target 3 (30×30) of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, with particular emphasis on marine protected areas (MPAs) and other effective conservation measures (OECMs) as essential tools to safeguard 30% of the planet’s ocean by 2030.

The event will be moderated by Ms. Rita El Zaghloul, Director of the High Ambition Coalition for Nature and People (HAC) Secretariat and will aim at showcasing 30×30 Country Ambassadors who have been making key progress and highlighting success stories that are driving ambition towards accelerating ocean conservation, including expanding MPAs and OECMs, the inclusion of Indigenous peoples and local communities, regional cooperation, and the development of effective management tools. 

In addition to sustaining high-level political momentum for marine conservation by showcasing progress and success stories related to the global 30×30 target, this session  will contribute to shaping the 2025 ocean roadmap leading up to the UNOC3 in Nice, France, reinforcing global commitment and strengthening the narrative around marine protection.