A new action programme for the Stockholm archipelago presents 34 proposals for a healthier marine environment. The Embassy of the Baltic Sea has been part of developing the programme within the network for Ecosystem-Based Marine Management (EBHF), led by Stockholm County Administrative Board. Together, the proposals begin to explore what marine management might look like if we start not only with human needs – but with the needs and rights of the sea itself.

The action programme states that the Baltic Sea constitutes a living and self-regulating system with which human well-being is inextricably intertwined: “the sea has a value that goes beyond its ability to provide resources to society in the form of ecosystem services. Its more-than-human inhabitants have the right to live and thrive, rights that need to be balanced against human interests.”

The Embassy of the Baltic Sea has contributed particularly to the working group on Cultural Perspective Shift, exploring how the sea itself can gain representation in decisions that affect it. Proposals include a national Baltic Sea Representative (Östersjöombud), representation mechanisms at regional level through HELCOM and at local level through Consulates of the Baltic Sea, and practical guidance for ecosystem representation (see the full proposal below!).

-       The recognition of the rights of the Baltic Sea is groundbreaking, and we commend the programme for taking this step, says Pella Thiel from the working group. We are also pleased by the opportunity to develop concrete proposals for representation of the Baltic Sea in decisionmaking at various levels. We hope they can be useful for others around the sea.

The 34 proposals have been brought together in an interactive model that makes relationships between different parts of the system visible. Seen together, proposals concerning two-stroke engines, fisheries management, fossil-free transport, local environmental action and ecological representation are no longer separate issues. They become different responses to the same question: What does this living sea need from us?

Explore the 34 proposals (in swedish)

Read the full regional action programme (in swedish)

 

Ami Flood presenting the Embassy of the Baltic Sea at EBHF Stakeholder forum.  


The proposals from the Cultural Perspective Shift working group

The working group proposes to create institutional space for the representation of the Baltic Sea as a living entity with its own rights, needs and interests. The aim is to strengthen compliance with the EU Marine Strategy Framework Directive through principles of ecological integrity and participatory management. By including more-than-human voices in decision-making, we aim to enhance the legitimacy of marine governance and the understanding of the Baltic Sea as a coherent ecosystem. In the long term, we strive for thriving communities and ecosystems throughout the catchment area. Our vision is a cultural and institutional transition in which people are seen as part of a living whole.

4.1 Feasibility study for a national representation mechanism

One way of introducing rights-based management would be through a ‘Baltic Sea Commissioner’ or a representation unit within the Swedish Agency for Marine and Water Management, with a mandate to, for example, review policies and action programmes from the perspective of ecological integrity, regardless of the resource perspective. The Commissioner could issue advisory opinions, facilitate dialogue with stakeholders and submit reports to HELCOM and the European Commission. A preliminary study for such a representation mechanism could examine the possibilities of creating space for the voice(s) of the sea within existing frameworks, as well as drawing on lessons from leading examples; for instance, how the Whanganui River in New Zealand, the Atrato River in Colombia and the Mar Menor in Spain have established structures and institutions for representation.

4.2 Strengthen coordination at regional and EU level

The Baltic Sea is a matter of concern for several countries, and the issue of the rights of nature is already being discussed broadly at the EU level. Sweden can take a leadership role by, for example, proposing that the next review of the BSAP within HELCOM include a pilot for a “Baltic Sea Representation Mechanism.” Another possibility is to initiate a “Baltic Sea Representation Forum” within the framework of the EU Strategy for the Baltic Sea Region, in order to develop common approaches and methodologies for ecological representation involving various stakeholders.

4.3 Develop a model for a consulate for local/regional engagement

Within the Baltic Sea catchment area, there are a number of stakeholders who, in various ways, are working towards a healthy sea; either directly or indirectly by developing regenerative approaches in various fields. By establishing a common basis in rights-based representation, these initiatives can gain greater leverage. Existing organisations and initiatives can take on the role of speaking on behalf of the Baltic Sea in various contexts, and new consular offices can be established. These can develop practices for representation and raise awareness of the rights of nature in general and the rights of the sea in particular.

4.4 Develop guidelines for ecosystem representation

The sea begins in the mountains, not at the shore; good environmental status in the Baltic Sea requires ecosystem-based management across the entire catchment area. Facilitate participation at local/regional level through a guide to the representation of nature as a stakeholder within, for example, the Water Framework Directive’s water councils. Experiences of more-than-human representation from the business sector and other organisations can be helpful.