First of all, in its preamble and introduction, the resolution refers to the international instruments (reports, conferences and declarations) regarding environmental issues as well as conventions on the protection and enhancement of the marine environment of the Caribbean region and the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. Indeed, it makes reference to the major issues regarding sustainable development discussed by the international community in recent years.

Moreover, among the natural phenomena that compelled the members of the UN to adopt this resolution, they cite the fragility of the ecosystem of the Caribbean space and the economic vulnerability of the region. The resolution thus underscores the importance of climate changes and variations, the intensity of natural disasters, primarily drought, hurricanes and volcanic eruptions.

And among the human phenomena, they make mention of the intensive use of the Sea for transportation, as well as marine pollution, both land-based and from vessels, which, out at sea, sometimes release waste and wastewater, not forgetting the accidental discharge of dangerous and toxic substances. 

The adoption of the resolution is also based on efforts undertaken by the States and countries of the region to preserve the coastal and marine resources of which they are guardians and their expressed will to improve the management of the Sea in the context of sustainable development. In this regard, the resolution salutes the work and initiatives undertaken by the ACS, including the establishment of the Caribbean Sea Commission and the adoption of a definition of the concept of the Caribbean Sea as a special zone, which were hitherto lacking.

In view of the foregoing, the resolution highlights a number of reasons why the Caribbean Sea deserves to be protected and preserved for present and future generations. In this regard, environmental motives are added to the social and economic realities. Mention is made of its exceptional biodiversity and very fragile ecosystem. This is coupled with the fact that it is a source of economic and material well-being for a number of countries in the region. In this regard, the resolution invites Member States to become Contracting Parties to the relevant international agreements aimed at strengthening maritime security and promoting the protection of the marine environment of the sea against pollution, as well as implementing sustainable management programmes for fish stock and implementing programmes to counter the impoverishment of marine biodiversity.

The resolution also encourages the initiatives embarked on by the States and countries of the region to create conditions favourable to sustainable development and to fight against poverty and inequality. It also salutes the work undertaken thus far by the ACS in the areas of sustainable tourism, trade, transport and natural disasters.

In view of the immensity of the task ahead, the Parties to the resolution request the support of the United Nations organs, including the Global Environmental Fund and the international community, for the work of the countries of the region as well as environmental protection organisations. In fact, a general appeal is launched for everyone to provide assistance and support for the management, protection and sustainable use of the resources of the Caribbean Sea.

There is no doubt that through the adoption of this resolution the community of Greater Caribbean nations has resolutely advanced toward the fundamental objective of having the Caribbean Sea declared a special zone. On three occasions the resolution makes reference to this concept, which is dear to the adherents of the International Conference on the Sustainable Development of Small Island Developing States (1994) and the Mauritius Declaration and Strategy (2005), which advocate for the principles and intents declared at the summits to lead to concrete actions. Resolution A/C.2/61/L.30, like any other resolution, expresses wishes. It is important to enforce it and to adopt new projects and activities with a view to strengthening the Caribbean Sea Initiative and achieving its final objective.

Dr Watson Denis is the Political Advisor at the Secretariat of the Association of Caribbean States. The opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect the official views of the ACS. You may send your comments to mail@acs-aec.org.