The Secretariat of the International Seabed Authority (ISA) has successfully convened its fourth annual meeting of National Focal Points for Capacity Development (NAFOP-CD) on October 16, 2024. As of today, 61 ISA Member States have nominated a NAFOP-CD.

The meeting addressed several key areas, encompassing a comprehensive review of progress in implementing the ISA Capacity Development Strategy adopted in 2022, an examination of capacity development activities supported by the ISA partnership fund since its establishment in 2023, including the specific projects endorsed in celebration of ISA’s 30th Anniversary, a discussion of upcoming opportunities within the Contractors’ Training Programme, Women In Blue, and Deep Dive initiatives, and an overview of the Environmental Impact Assessment training held at the ISA-Egypt Joint Training Centre in Alexandria.

ISA Secretary-General, H.E. Mr. Michael W. Lodge, opened the meeting by emphasizing the critical role of NAFOPs, enabling Member States to fully benefit from the best training and capacity development opportunities developed and implemented by ISA. The Secretary-General also welcomed the growing number of Focal Points. “The NAFOP-CD network has become an indispensable component of ISA’s capacity development efforts. I am extremely proud that in less than four years, it has grown from 41 members in 2021 to 61 in 2024, which demonstrates the robust and increasing support of our Member States to this vital initiative,” he stated.

Established in response to recommendations from a 2020 workshop, the NAFOP-CD network plays a crucial role in ensuring ISA’s capacity development programs meet the specific needs of its Members, particularly LDCs, LLDCs, and SIDs. The NAFOP-CD initiative has experienced significant growth since its inception. The first meeting in April 2021 set the foundation, followed by increased participation in subsequent gatherings. The second meeting in May 2022 saw attendance from 52 Member States, which further increased to 61 by November 2024.

NAFOPs contribute to ISA’s mission through various essential functions, such as facilitating information dissemination on capacity development programs, identifying potential national partners for training initiatives, raising awareness of ISA’s mandate among national ministries, helping to identify technical assistance needs and supporting the establishment of a network of contributing institutions.

As ISA commemorates its 30th Anniversary, the NAFOP-CD network plays a pivotal role in implementing the organization’s Strategic Plan and High-Level Action Plan for 2019-2025. These efforts focus particularly on building capacity for developing States and ensuring their integrated participation in deep-seabed related matters under Strategic directions 5 (Build capacity for developing States) and 6 (Ensure integrated participation by developing States).

The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment to addressing the specific capacity development needs of ISA Members and promoting inclusivity. Special emphasis was placed on advancing women’s leadership within and across deep-sea related disciplines and activities, a long-standing commitment of ISA and Secretary-General Lodge.