During the Third United Nations Ocean Conference held from 9 to 13 June in Nice, France, Minister of Tourism and Environment of the Maldives, Hon. Thoriq Ibrahim, officially launched the country’s national roadmap for the development of ocean accounts. The launch was held at a special side event organized by the Maldives in collaboration with the Global Ocean Accounts Partnership.
This new initiative reflects the Maldives’ growing commitment to integrating marine sustainability into national economic planning. Ocean accounts provide a systematic framework for measuring and assessing the status, use, and value of ocean ecosystems. By aligning this data with national accounting systems, countries can better understand the economic and social benefits of marine resources and incorporate them into development strategies.
The Maldivian roadmap sets out three phased targets:
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Establish the foundational structure for ocean accounting by the end of 2026.
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Implement pilot projects in selected regions and develop a national ocean accounting system by 2028.
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Integrate ocean account data into cross-sectoral policy-making processes by 2030 to support sustainable development planning.
At the launch event, Minister Thoriq emphasized that the Maldives’ future prosperity and the well-being of its people are deeply linked to the health of its marine biodiversity. He noted that protecting the nation’s marine ecosystems, including its coral reefs, fish populations, and coastal environments, is essential not only for environmental preservation but also for the long-term sustainability of sectors such as tourism and fisheries.
The ongoing UN Ocean Conference in Nice provides a vital platform for global cooperation on ocean sustainability. The event brings together world leaders, ministers, environmental experts, and international organizations to address challenges related to marine pollution, overfishing, climate impacts on ocean systems, and the degradation of coastal and marine habitats.
Central to this year’s conference is Sustainable Development Goal 14 (SDG 14), which calls for the conservation and sustainable use of oceans, seas, and marine resources. The discussions are focused on accelerating global action and mobilizing the resources necessary to achieve these objectives.
Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Resources, Hon. Ahmed Shiyam, is also representing the Maldives at the conference. Both ministers are actively engaged in discussions and knowledge-sharing sessions that explore innovative approaches to marine resource management, including the role of ocean data in informing national policies.
The introduction of the ocean accounts roadmap marks a new phase in the Maldives’ environmental leadership. By applying evidence-based frameworks and participating in global partnerships, the country is enhancing its reputation as a responsible island destination, where economic development goes hand in hand with the protection of marine ecosystems. For international visitors, this reaffirms the Maldives as not only a world-class travel destination but also a nation dedicated to preserving the natural beauty that draws millions to its shores each year.
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