The role of intergovernmental organizations in coastal zone management

The near shore shallow margins of the oceans are where most conflicts take place amongst marine activities, where anthropogenic impacts are most concentrated, where development is most sensitive and where constituencies are most vocal. Almost exclusively these areas are within the extended economic zone of coastal states and therefore under national jurisdiction. Why therefore would national governments wish to put coastal zone matters on the international negotiating table and what is the role, if one exists, of intergovernmental organizations? In fact, there are many valid reasons for global cooperation amongst governments, ranging from the obvious benefits of mutual sharing of data and knowledge to the need to address problems of a ubiquitous and global nature. The role of the major UN Agencies is explored. Intergovernmental events having particular relevance to coastal issues are discussed.