5 July 2012: As part of its Acclimate Project, the Indian Ocean Commission (IOC) convened a high-level workshop to discuss a draft regional strategy for climate change adaptation for the western Indian Ocean islands. The event brought together representatives from Comoros, Madagascar, Reunion (France), Mauritius and Seychelles.

The workshop, which took place from 4-5 July 2012, in Mauritius, built on the work IOC carried out since 2010 in understanding the specific vulnerabilities to climate change of its member States and define their common priorities in addressing this challenge.

According to the IOC, the draft strategy prioritizes integrated water management, the terrestrial and marine environment, public health and food security. Additional priority areas include disaster risk reduction (DRR), transport, energy and tourism. The draft would have the IOC call on the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) to establish a regional climate service centre so support member States’ resilience to climate change.

The strategy will be forwarded to the IOC’s Ministerial Council for its consideration and approval. Once approved, the strategy will serve as the IOC’s framework for regional action in terms of adaptation to climate change. [Acclimate Press Release] [IISD RS Sources]