The UN General Assembly (UNGA) has unanimously signed the "United Nations Declaration on Sea Level Rise", empowering the legal sovereignty of small island nations and coastal countries that experience the dangers of rising sea levels and for their protection.
This is the first time the UN has signed a declaration on rising sea levels at an international level. The declaration was passed on 24th October.
Important points in the declaration
- Protecting independence and sovereignty: Even if parts of a nation's land is lost due to rising sea levels, their independence, sovereignty and UN membership status will be maintained under the assurance of international laws.
- Protection of maritime territorial boundaries: Assuring special economic zones (SEZ) and maritime territories, defined under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), are maintained regardless of changes to the land.
- Increasing financial assistance: Call to increase financial aid required by small and developing island nations so they can overcome environmental dangers.
Maldives' role and advocation
Maldives is one of the nations that are advocating at the forefront of the international arena regarding the issue of seasonal changes and rising sea levels. This effort started 37 years ago in 1989 in Male' with the "Male' Declaration", which was formed during a meeting with small island nations.
During UNGA's meeting in October, Vice President of the Maldives Hussain Mohamed Latheef stated in his address that the solution to be saved from the danger of rising sea levels is "not to delay it further" and instead to ensure security and protection with determination.
The Vice President called to expedite financial aid required by small island nations and for the absolute assurance of the rights of small nations under international laws.
