Hungary and the EU push for synergies with Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and BBNJ Agreement

Hungary, on behalf of the EU member states, tabled a resolution aimed at strengthening the IWC’s alignment with two critical global frameworks: the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) and the United Nations Agreement on Marine Biological Diversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ). This proposal seeks to deepen cooperation between the IWC and these frameworks, ensuring that the commission plays an active role in addressing global biodiversity challenges and marine conservation efforts.

Building synergies

Hungary, representing the EU member states, stressed the importance of aligning the IWC’s efforts with broader international biodiversity frameworks to amplify the impact of the commission’s work. The resolution recognises the IWC’s unique role in the conservation of whales and cetaceans and proposes concrete steps to integrate the commission’s activities with global initiatives like the GBF and BBNJ.

The resolution’s key goals are to encourage contracting governments to incorporate IWC conservation objectives into their National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAPs) and to facilitate access to funding for biodiversity projects relevant to the IWC. Specifically, the proposal calls on the IWC Secretariat to collaborate closely with the CBD and BBNJ secretariats, strengthening the synergies between these organisations, particularly in areas such as capacity building, monitoring, and reporting.

One of the most significant elements of the resolution is its focus on securing funding through the Global Environment Facility (GEF). The resolution encourages the IWC Secretariat to work with the GEF to gain access to project funding that would support species-based and region-based conservation management plans under the framework of the GBF.

Support for the resolution

Several countries expressed strong support for the resolution. Costa Rica highlighted the importance of synergy between these frameworks and the IWC, particularly in the context of marine protected areas (MPAs). Costa Rica called upon the IWC to consider the creation of whale sanctuaries beyond national jurisdictions and encouraged the Conservation Committee to build stronger links with the BBNJ Agreement.

India also voiced strong support, underscoring its own commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development. India emphasised its significant role in developing the GBF and its recent decision to approve the signing of the BBNJ, marking an important step towards marine biodiversity conservation. India welcomed the resolution’s alignment with international cooperation, governance, and the rule of law, and praised the focus on scientific exchange, area-based management tools, and environmental impact assessments.

The United Kingdom described the resolution as an important step forward, particularly in light of the IWC’s broader role in international biodiversity conservation. The UK welcomed the strengthening of collaboration between the IWC, GBF, and BBNJ frameworks, noting that the IWC was uniquely positioned to contribute to the work of these bodies.

The United States also supported the resolution but suggested some minor drafting adjustments. The US delegation noted that the IWC’s Conservation Committee had already decided to align its strategic plan with other international organisations and urged for this alignment to be included in the final text of the resolution.

Argentina, Colombia, and Panama also voiced their support for the proposal, with Colombia particularly highlighting the resolution’s capacity-building elements. Togo and the Dominican Republic welcomed the resolution, noting its relevance in ensuring that small island states and developing nations have the tools and partnerships necessary to protect marine biodiversity.

Costs and drafting revisions

The IWC’s Finance and Administration (F&A) Committee noted that the resolution would result in short-term costs of £9,500, primarily covering travel, accommodation, and subsistence for attendance at meetings with other international bodies. These costs were considered manageable, and no major financial objections were raised.

While there was widespread support for the resolution, several countries, including the United States, offered drafting suggestions. The revised version of the resolution will be produced in collaboration with those that had suggested amendments, and all parties are confident that the final text will reflect a shared commitment to strengthening the IWC’s role in global biodiversity and marine conservation efforts.

The way forward

With broad support and minimal opposition, the resolution on synergies with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and the BBNJ Agreement can be expected to pass after the revisions are incorporated. This marks a significant step towards integrating the IWC’s work with the global efforts to conserve marine biodiversity and address climate change.