As the majority of oceans lie outside the borders of national jurisdiction, they are by definition a shared resource. While internationally recognised definition of 'international ocean governance' does not exist, the framework is based on the UN Convention on the "Law of the sea", under which a combination of jurisdictional rights, institutions and specific structures have been set.

But is the current framework for international ocean governance effective enough in order to tackle the global challenges and to ensure the sustainable management of oceans and their resources? What kind of action is the EU undertaking and how does it see its role and the role of its likeminded partners such as Japan in shaping the future of international ocean governance?

The EU-Japan Centre for Industrial Cooperation co-organised with the Delegation of the European Union to Japan a speaking event of EU Commissioner Karmenu Vella on 12 May, 2016 in Tokyo.

During the speaking event Commissioner Karmenu Vella, in charge of environment, maritime policy and fisheries in the EU, spoke on the Future of Ocean Governance and highlighted the action the EU is engaged in for assuring a common approach to ocean governance.

The Event attracted about 80 eager participants from various sectors related to the maritime affairs.

Programme
18:00-18:05 Opening remarks by Ambassador Viorel ISTICIOAIA BUDURA, Head of the Delegation of the European Union to Japan
18:05-18:25 Speech on "Future of Ocean Governance" by Mr Karmenu VELLA, European Commissioner for Environment, Maritime Affairs and Fisheries
18:25-18:50 Questions and Answers
18:50-18:55 Closing remarks by Mr. Yasuyuki SAKAI, Parliamentary Vice-Minister of Cabinet Office
19:00-20:00 Networking Reception