Tonga is calling for stronger global coordination on ocean governance, with Prime Minister Lord Fakafanua proposing the establishment of a dedicated United Nations Department of Ocean Affairs.
Fakafanua made the proposal during a high-level ocean leadership dialogue on the margins of the 81st United Nations General Assembly (UNGA81), alongside UN Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for the Ocean Ambassador Peter Thomson.
The proposal was well received by participants, according to the Prime Minister’s Office, which said there was shared recognition of the need for more effective international cooperation on ocean issues.
What does Tonga want the UN to do?
Tonga’s proposal would create stronger coordination and leadership across the international ocean governance system.
The call reflects a long-standing Tongan and Pacific concern that the ocean is central to island countries’ economies, food security, livelihoods and climate resilience.
Tonga has previously committed to fully protecting 30% of its ocean space, and Fakafanua told the dialogue that Tonga now has an ambition to increase that target to 50%.
Why does it matter for Tonga?
For Tonga, protecting the ocean is not simply about conservation.
The Government says healthier marine ecosystems are essential to sustaining fisheries and coastal livelihoods, protecting biodiversity, strengthening resilience and supporting sustainable development for future generations.
With much of Tonga’s population and economic activity connected to the ocean, decisions about marine resources and protection have direct implications for communities and the country’s development.
The United Nations has highlighted the importance of resilience for Tonga, noting that about 80% of the population lives along coastlines and faces increasing exposure to climate-related hazards.
A wider Pacific issue
Tonga’s proposal comes as international institutions continue to debate how ocean governance, climate action, fisheries, food security and marine conservation should be better coordinated.
At UNGA81, FAO Director-General Qu Dongyu also linked ocean health with fisheries, food security, livelihoods and climate resilience, particularly for Small Island Developing States.
The Prime Minister’s Office did not provide details of how a new UN Department of Ocean Affairs would be structured or how it would relate to existing UN bodies.
Tonga’s proposal therefore remains a call for discussion rather than an established UN decision.
The significance of Tonga’s proposal will depend on whether other countries support further consideration of a stronger institutional role for ocean governance within the UN system.
