Experiences, lessons learned and emerging best practice in integrated ocean policy were the topics considered during a recent conference in Lisbon, Portugal.

The Ocean Policy Summit (TOPS), held from 11-13 October 2005, took as its theme, “Integrated Ocean Policy: National and Regional Experiences, Prospects and Emerging Practices.” Delegates discussed various aspects of integrated ocean policy, including: the growing interest in integrated national and regional ocean policies; learning lessons from countries that have made the most progress to date; achieving cross-sectoral harmonization of ocean use and agencies; identifying principles for governance; and implementing an integrated policy and factoring in operational and financial considerations. The discussions and ideas generated at the summit are expected to provide further momentum for integrated oceans management at the international, regional and national levels. IISDRS Coverage.