Charting a Blue Future: UNIDO’s Blue Industry Contribution to the Blue Economy Agenda

The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) is proud to announce the release of its latest publication, “Charting a Blue Future: Blue Industry and UNIDO’s Contribution to the Blue Economy Agenda,” which consolidates key insights from the Development Dialogue held on 2nd July 2024.

This hybrid event, led by UNIDO, attracted over 120 participants, including Permanent Missions from 32 nations, alongside key development partners such as the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), the European Union (EU), and the Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ). The event showcased UNIDO’s pivotal role in advancing Blue Industries and outlined strategic next steps to broaden the organization’s work in this critical sector. A panel of esteemed Blue Economy experts provided valuable insights across various regions and sectors.

The publication delves into the primary objectives of the Development Dialogue, with a focus on UNIDO’s commitment to shaping a comprehensive Blue Industry Programmatic Framework. Spearheaded by UNIDO's Blue Economy Task Force, this framework aims to amplify and optimize UNIDO’s efforts in supporting the development of sustainable blue industries, particularly in small island developing states (SIDS) and coastal developing countries.

In addition to offering a comprehensive overview of the Theory of Change behind UNIDO’s Blue Industry approach, the publication also highlights successful case studies of UNIDO-led initiatives in blue sectors. These success stories illustrate how targeted interventions in Blue Industries can generate sustainable livelihoods, create jobs, and contribute to economic, social, and environmental well-being in countries heavily reliant on ocean and inland water economies.

As part of its continued commitment to the Blue Economy agenda, UNIDO will host a Technical Expert Group Meeting on 2-4 December 2024 to finalize the Blue Industry Programmatic Framework. Additionally, a second Development Dialogue is slated for 2025, where progress will be reviewed, and further opportunities for collaboration explored.

For more information, contact Mr. Alejandro Rivera Rojas, UNIDO Industrial Development Officer (a.rivera-rojas [at] unido.org).