Making 30x30 count: From participation to credible, equitable and lasting marine OECMs in Asia

​As Asian countries explore OECMs to accelerate progress towards GBF Target 3, expanding the area reported as conserved will not, by itself, secure effective and equitable conservation. Marine OECMs must demonstrate sustained biodiversity outcomes while respecting rights and tenure, supporting legitimate and inclusive governance, recognizing Indigenous and local knowledge, and strengthening the leadership of Indigenous Peoples and local communities. They also require appropriate monitoring, institutional capacity, financial support and adaptive management over the long term. Meaningful participation is therefore not an additional component of OECM implementation. It is one of the mechanisms through which OECM quality is achieved. It can help ensure that conservation measures respond to local priorities, draw on diverse knowledge systems, build trust, and retain the long-term stewardship needed to sustain both ecological and social outcomes. Drawing on experiences from communities, governments, researchers and conservation organizations across Asia, this session will examine practical approaches for moving from participation as a principle to participation in practice. It will explore how participatory governance can support credible, equitable, and lasting marine OECMs, and identify lessons that can inform Target 3 implementation across the region.