UN Declaration on Sea Level Rise

This declaration outlines the urgent need for enhanced action on sea level rise by Heads of State and Government at the 81st session of the UN General Assembly. It addresses the accelerating risks caused by ocean warming and melting ice sheets, with specific concern for Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and Least Developed Countries (LDCs). The declaration draws upon international law, including the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), and references leading scientific bodies and traditional knowledge. It is structured around four pillars: knowledge, data and science; adaptation, finance and resilience; livelihoods, socioeconomic challenges, culture and heritage; and legal dimensions. It calls for coordinated global responses, integration of sea level rise into national and international planning, and enhanced support for affected communities.

Key conclusions include the need for improved scientific understanding, exchange of data, capacity building, and investment in anticipatory actions such as multi-hazard early warning systems. The declaration recommends scaling up finance and partnerships, streamlining access to funds, and prioritizing nature-based solutions. It emphasizes inclusive decision-making and education, protection of cultural heritage, and integration of sea level rise projections into critical infrastructure planning. Legal stability is reinforced, with support for continued statehood and human rights protection for communities facing land loss. States are urged to maintain international cooperation, ensure coherent action across UN processes, and commit to ongoing high-level dialogue and follow-up.