The Secretariat of the International Seabed Authority (ISA) will host its 5th annual meeting of National Focal Points for Capacity Development (NAFOP-CD) on 27 August 2026. The meeting will bring together national representatives from across ISA Member States to review progress, identify capacity development needs, and advance future capacity development initiatives aimed at ensuring the full and effective participation of developing States in activities in the Area.
The online meeting will take plance in 27 August 2026, from 09:00–11:00 a.m., Kingston time, reflecting the Secretariat’s continued commitment to implementing its Capacity Development Strategy and advancing the principle of the Common Heritage of Humankind.
Established by the ISA Assembly through decision ISBA/26/A/18, the network of National Focal Points for Capacity Development serves as an important mechanism for strengthening communication between Member States and the ISA Secretariat on all matters relating to capacity development. The network facilitates coordination, promotes inclusivity, and helps align national priorities with ISA’s mandate to ensure equitable access to opportunities in deep-sea related science, technology, research, and governance.
As of 24 July 2026, the network includes 111 focal points from 87 Member States, demonstrating growing global engagement and commitment to capacity development.
For more information on this event, please write to capacity-development@isa.org.jm
About ISA
The International Seabed Authority is an autonomous intergovernmental organization established under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea to organize, regulate and control activities in the seabed beyond national jurisdiction for the benefit of humankind as a whole. ISA is committed to ensuring that all activities in the deep seabed are carried out responsibly, using the best available scientific evidence and in accordance with the principle of the common heritage of humankind.
For media inquiries, please contact:
ISA Communications Unit, news@isa.org.jm