Madagascar pledges women in ocean conservation
The island nation joins Belize in a global initiative to integrate women into marine resource decision-making.
Madagascar has pledged to place women at the centre of its ocean conservation efforts and blue economy strategies. The commitment was made at the UN Biodiversity Conference (CoP17) as part of the Women Ocean Guardians Initiative. This global partnership aims to integrate women's leadership into formal decision-making systems for marine resources. Madagascar joins 14 other governments that have made similar pledges.
Andrianirina Harinaivo Fanomezantsoa, Madagascar’s Coordonnateur Général for Green Diplomacy, stated that women in Madagascar are key contributors to marine conservation and coastal development. He highlighted their roles as rangers, saving group members, park managers, healthcare workers, scientists, and village chiefs. The initiative has secured over 50 commitments, including those from 16 governments and more than 30 partners.
The Women Ocean Guardians Initiative aims to address gaps in the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, particularly Target 23 on gender equality, which remains the least advanced global goal. Challenges in achieving the 30x30 ocean protection goal, such as management effectiveness and inclusive governance, are also being targeted.
Why it mattersMadagascar's commitment ensures women's leadership is integrated into national marine conservation strategies and blue economy development.