The Secretariat of the Pacific Community’s Team Leader for ocean management, Tony Kabasi, has emphasized the urgent need for Pacific nations to resolve their outstanding maritime boundaries. This call to action was highlighted during the Pacific Islands Ocean Conference in Honiara, where Kabasi pointed out the critical role that finalized maritime boundaries play in securing the region’s sovereignty and resources amidst the challenges posed by climate change.
At the 54th Pacific Islands Forum in September 2025, leaders reinforced their commitment to conclude the remaining maritime boundary delimitations and continental shelf submissions, drawn from the foundation of the landmark 2021 and 2023 Declarations. They acknowledged that formalizing these boundaries is pivotal in establishing legal certainty for maritime zones, which is essential as the region confronts the existential threat of rising sea levels.
Kabasi underlined that out of 48 shared maritime boundaries, 36 have already been addressed, putting the Pacific region far ahead of the global average completion rate of 60%. He expressed the urgency to complete the remaining 25% to achieve 100% maritime ocean management, stating that these finalized boundaries would be officially registered with the United Nations under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
Challenges remain in the boundary finalization process, including the complexities of negotiations, legal requirements, and the necessity for strong political will. Despite this, the Pacific Maritime Boundaries programme, supported by the Australian Government and a consortium of partners, continues to aid Pacific Island countries in these efforts.
The Forum Leaders have commended nations like the Federated States of Micronesia, the Marshall Islands, and Palau for successfully signing amended treaties on maritime boundaries. They urged all Pacific nations to incorporate the 2021 Declaration on Preserving Maritime Zones into their national legislation where required, which would promote a unified front in protecting the region’s ocean resources.
This collaborative endeavor not only aims to solidify the legal frameworks governing maritime boundaries but also seeks to empower Pacific nations to manage their oceanic resources sustainably. The outcomes of these efforts reflect a broader commitment to securing a resilient future for the Blue Pacific Continent, ultimately benefiting the communities that depend on these vital marine environments. By taking decisive actions now, Pacific nations position themselves as leaders in global ocean governance, serving as a beacon of hope and cooperation in the face of climate change.