Advancing Ocean Governance Through Research, Policy and Diplomacy – State of the Planet

Growing up in Seychelles, a small island developing state with vast ocean territory and a deep reliance on marine ecosystems, Jeremy Raguain developed a strong passion for ocean conservation. Since graduating from Columbia University’s Master of Public Administration in Environmental Science and Policy (MPA-ESP) program in May 2024, he has taken on a critical role at the International Union for Conservation of Nature Eastern and Southern Africa Regional Office.

His work focuses on accelerating the ratification and implementation of the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) agreement, an international agreement that seeks to ensure the sustainable use and conservation of marine biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction.

In this interview, Raguain shares insights on his current work, experiences at the 16th Conference of the Parties (COP16) of the Convention on Biological Diversity, and how Columbia shaped his path.

You recently attended COP16 of the Convention on Biological Diversity in Cali, Colombia. What were your key takeaways?

The Convention on Biological Diversity’s COP16 had a different feel compared to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change’s COP 27 I attended, particularly in terms of finance negotiations. There is a growing recognition that funding sources for biodiversity protection, adaptation efforts and conservation are shrinking rather than expanding. This has led to an emphasis on finding ‘win-win’ solutions, such as protecting mangroves, which can drive progress and create synergies within what has been termed the ocean-climate-biodiversity nexus. Mangrove conservation can simultaneously contribute to a country’s nationally determined contributions under the Paris Agreement, national biodiversity strategies and action plans under the Convention on Biological Diversity, and multiple sustainable development goals.

Another key topic of discussion was the recognition of ecologically and biologically significant areas, which are essential for ensuring that marine protection zones—both within national territories and in areas beyond national jurisdiction—receive global recognition. However, securing financial commitments for biodiversity conservation was intensely debated, with donor countries, particularly in the E.U., deliberating over financing for the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. This financial uncertainty was especially evident in discussions around the Digital Sequence Information fund, where ensuring that benefits derived from genetic resources are equitably shared—particularly for developing states and the Global South. From where I sat, it seemed unlikely that these ambitious financial targets would be met without substantial structural changes.

COP16 highlighted the importance of strengthening marine biodiversity protections and improving global ocean governance. How does your work at International Union for Conservation of Nature Eastern and Southern Africa Regional Office contribute to these efforts?

I joined IUCN ESARO as a senior program officer in November, focusing primarily on translating the BBNJ agreement from a treaty I had helped negotiate into law and action in Eastern and Southern Africa through the Great Blue Wall initiative. This initiative aims to conserve marine resources through marine protected areas while also empowering local communities by enhancing the sustainable fisheries value chain and creating additional economic opportunities through ecotourism and related activities. Our Coastal and Ocean Resilience Program covers Eastern and Southern Africa, spanning from Somalia to South Africa and Angola, as well as numerous island nations—about 24 projects in total. My work is centered on advancing the ratification and implementation of the BBNJ agreement.

What makes the BBNJ so important?

This agreement is critical as it regulates access to marine genetic resources, establishes processes for creating area-based management tools, such as marine protected areas and environmental impact assessments, while also increasing the capacity of developing states. Although it is the third implementing agreement of the UN Convention of the Law of the Sea, it is the first agreement that focuses on the protection of biodiversity found in international waters, and it has been hailed as an immense achievement as it promotes global cooperation in ocean governance despite intensifying geopolitics.

Of the 11 African coastal countries I’m working with, two have ratified, five have signed, and my goal is to ensure that governments are informed and supported as they ratify and begin implementing what has been called ‘four treaties in one.’ This is achieved through partnerships and engagement with governments, regional organizations, NGOs, scientific communities and other stakeholders.

What are the biggest challenges and rewards of working on ocean conservation and international environmental agreements?

One of the biggest challenges is the bureaucratic complexity of working across regional and international organizations and individual government entities, each with its own policies and procedures. Many governments are already overwhelmed with existing multilateral environmental agreements, making it difficult to prioritize the BBNJ agreement. Political instability in some countries, such as Mozambique, also complicates environmental policy engagement. Success in this space requires a deep understanding of political dynamics and the ability to align conservation efforts with national priorities.

At the same time, one of the most rewarding aspects of my work is providing technical and strategic support to countries that may lack the capacity to engage with these complex international agreements. Helping nations navigate policy frameworks and secure necessary resources is incredibly meaningful. Seeing a country not just ratify the Agreement but also strengthen its capacity to implement meaningful conservation efforts makes the work worthwhile.

In addition to your policy work, you’ve also been engaged in research. Can you tell us about your project with Sara Tjossem and what inspired it?

I started this research with Tjossem in January last year as an independent study. Given my participation in the BBNJ agreement’s negotiations as the climate and ocean advisor to the Seychelles Permanent Mission to the UN and Alliance of Small Islands States Fellow, we conducted a survey of approximately 20 negotiators and observers, primarily from small island developing states, but also from NGOs and other nations. The goal of the research is to understand how decision-makers assess the benefits and trade-offs of the BBNJ agreement and provide recommendations to policymakers in small island developing states on how to proceed in the ratification and implementation of this agreement.

Having grown up in Seychelles, I understand how crucial these agreements are for geo-economic and environmental security. This understanding shaped my research, which has expanded into multiple papers. The first, where I am the lead author, is set to publish in “Ocean Yearbook 39,” to be released mid-2025. I’m also working on two additional papers focused on the ratification and implementation of the agreement. The job search period between graduation and starting my current role allowed me to fully dedicate myself to consulting and writing, and I’m excited to see how this work can inform policy discussions.

How did the MPA-ESP program prepare you for your career?

The ESP Workshop was a standout experience. It’s structured like a real-world office environment and gives you valuable insight into how you function within a team. It was a great space for self-reflection and professional development.

Other key experiences included Climate Law seminars with Michael Gerrard, which provided insights into legal activism and policy enforcement, and being a teaching assistant for the graduate level course Climate Justice Theory, Practice, and Policy with Sheila Foster. Hydrology and Environmental Policy courses were also particularly useful in shaping my approach to bridging the gap between policymakers and scientists.

What advice do you have for current MPA-ESP students interested in careers in environmental policy, conservation or international organizations?

Take advantage of Columbia’s network—professors, fellow students and research centers can all be valuable connections. But don’t approach networking solely from a career perspective; genuine relationships will offer the most meaningful opportunities.

Also, recognize that international environmental policy is often conceptual and bureaucratic, but that doesn’t mean change isn’t happening. Sometimes, the most impactful work isn’t what’s visible—it’s the connections you facilitate behind the scenes, such as linking activists with lawyers and scientists with funders. Ultimately, building strong connections and being proactive in conservation efforts is key. I hope to see future ESP graduates pushing for innovative solutions in global environmental governance.