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At a time when pollution, global warming and unchecked industrial activity are accelerating the decline of marine ecosystems and coral reefs, Jordan is stepping forward as a vocal advocate for ocean protection and sustainability.
It may seem surprising that a country with only 27 kilometres of shoreline is emerging as a leader in marine preservation, but I believe that this very constraint is fueling Jordan’s appreciation for the oceans’ value and driving its deep commitment to conserving coral reefs and advancing eco-tourism, sustainable economic developmentand regional marine cooperation.
The Kingdom is increasingly being recognised on the global stage for its influential role in advancing marine diplomacy. In a recent conversation, an international marine expert told me with genuine admiration that Jordan has a “unique coral reef and the state has a real will to protect it.”
His Majesty King Abdullah’s address on June 9 at the third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3) in Nice is anaffirmation of this serious commitment to marine conservation, sustainable development and the advancement of a forward-looking blue economy.
Hundreds of international leaders, officials and experts from around the world listened carefully to King Abdullah’s wise words detailing a progressive vision. His Majesty the King stressed that Jordan’s national priorities focus on improving the lives of its people, indicating that while some may view ocean or climate policy as unrelated to these goals, Jordan recognises their deep interconnection. As His Majesty said “Jordan has long chosen the path of stewardship and healing, despite challenges in our part of the world. We have vital national priorities to improve the lives of Jordanians. Some may see ocean or climate policy unrelated to these goals. We, like so many of you, know better.”
At the conference, King Abdullah announced Jordan’s launch of the Aqaba Blue Ventures and Global Centre for Ocean Regeneration, which will position Jordan as a regional and global leader in science-driven marine conservation and blue economy innovation.
Setting up these initiatives in Aqaba carries added significance as the Gulf of Aqaba is known to host some of the world’s most biologically diverse coral reefs that are also withstanding rising sea temperatures. Marine biologists highlight the importance of Aqaba’s coral reefs and the need to protect them because they may be used to re-seed dying reefs in the future in some parts of the world.
But these initiatives are not only about technology, innovation and science. They also emphasize the importance of inclusive partnerships that bring together local communities, policymakers, scientists, and international collaborators. King Abdullah in his speech emphasised what scientists, conservationists and coastal communities have long understood: effective marine conservation must be inclusive. Local communities, who are often the most affected by environmental degradation, must be partners in stewardship.
Jordan’s environmental policy has always balanced nationalpriorities with long-term ecological responsibility and sustainable development – all while taking the concerns and needs of local communities into consideration.
In a region suffering from water scarcity, economic challenges and political instability, some might question the relevance of ocean diplomacy and marine conservation. But as His Majesty reminded the world, investing in nature isan investment in resilience. “When collective action regenerates ecosystems, we create new opportunities for all to thrive,” His Majesty stated.
Environmental degradation knows no borders, and neither should the solutions. Jordan has firmly placed itself on the map as a leader in the fight against climate change and inadvocating science as a tool for diplomacy. Jordan is not only presenting to the world a hopeful vision, but in fact an actionable model based on science, engagement by all parties and commitment to sustainable growth.
Hana Namrouqa is the Deputy Chief Editor of The Jordan Times.