Creating Synergies Between Global and Regional MPA Regimes in Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction

Abstract

The OSPAR Convention has a network of marine protected areas (MPAs) in place, covering vast areas beyond national jurisdiction (ABNJ) in the North-East Atlantic. The forthcoming international legally binding instrument on biodiversity beyond national jurisdiction (BBNJ) will introduce a global regime for MPAs in ABNJ. The question thus arises what this means for OSPAR, and how these bodies will cooperate. In this thesis, the MPA regimes of these instruments are thoroughly examined – as well as their institutional mechanisms. It is assessed how they can work together to create synergies, and achieve effective and comprehensive MPA governance.