From November 30 to December 29, 2024, Tunisia will continue hosting the second training session launched by the International Ocean Institute (IOI). This training focuses on maritime culture and the specific challenges facing the Tunisian coasts. First, it is important to note that the IOI holds special consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) and consultative status with several UN specialized agencies. This international recognition reflects the institute’s expertise and credibility in the field of ocean governance. The program is primarily aimed at Tunisian participants, with around forty beneficiaries from this second cohort, including actors and specialists in fields related to the sea (civil society, environmental activists, entrepreneurs, marine biology researchers, scuba divers, marine scientists, etc.). This openness enriches exchanges and promotes a collaborative approach to maritime issues in the Mediterranean, especially in Tunisia.
A multidisciplinary approach
Participants in this training will gain an in-depth understanding of the maritime mindset and the main challenges faced by our seas, with a particular focus on Tunisia. The program covers key concepts such as marine spatial governance, maritime law, and the blue economy. The training will also address a wide range of topics, from marine ecology to conservation, and the role of NGOs in protecting the marine environment in Tunisia. Participants will also study the concept of marine protected areas, their role in preserving biodiversity, and examine Tunisia’s specific situation regarding marine protected areas.
A long-term commitment
This second cohort is part of the continued commitment of the IOI to training and strengthening capacities in marine spatial governance. Since its founding in 1972 by Professor Elisabeth Mann Borghese, the IOI has developed into a leading, independent, non-profit NGO that provides ocean governance training to prepare future leaders. The IOI has a vast network of 10 centers and 21 focal points around the world, with its headquarters in Malta. This international presence enables the institute to offer programs tailored to regional specifics while maintaining a global vision of ocean challenges. The launch of this second cohort in Tunisia reflects the IOI’s ongoing commitment to the Mediterranean region and its significant contribution to strengthening governance capacity. It also highlights its desire to train a new generation of professionals capable of addressing the complex challenges of sustainable marine space management. The training, adapted to the local context and delivered in the country’s language, further demonstrates this commitment.
