The fourth meeting of the United Nations Open-ended Informal Consultative Process on Oceans and the Law of the Sea was held from 2-6 June 2003 at UNHQ headqarters in New York.

The meeting brought together over 200 delegates from governments, intergovernmental organizations and non-governmental organizations to exchange views on areas of concern and actions needed, particularly in matters of cooperation and coordination on oceans issues. Two discussion panels were held to consider safety of navigation, including capacity building for the production of nautical charts, and the protection of vulnerable marine ecosystems. Delegates agreed on a draft text on elements to be suggested to the General Assembly for its consideration under its agenda item entitled “Oceans and the Law of the Sea,” which include proposals on safety of navigation, the protection of vulnerable marine ecosystems, and cooperation and coordination on ocean issues. The Earth Negotiations Bulletin report outlining these discussions in detail is available at: http://enb.iisd.org/linkages/oceans/icp4/