Event Details
The vast and complex maritime domain remains the backbone of global trade, connectivity, and environmental stability, while sustaining the livelihoods of 50% of the world’s population. Yet it faces mounting threats: from illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing, piracy, contested sovereignty, and the protection of subsea infrastructure, to the growing impacts of climate change.
Ensuring effective Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) is more critical than ever. With 53 of 56 Commonwealth member states possessing an oceanic, sea or Great Lake coastline, the Commonwealth is uniquely positioned to forge consensus and drive innovative approaches to MDA.
Building on the success of the inaugural MDA Summit, the Second Commonwealth Maritime Domain Awareness Summit, hosted in collaboration with the Royal Canadian Navy, will advance the dialogue and deepen practical cooperation. This summit will take forward the key outcomes of the first meeting:
Harnessing new technologies such as satellite systems, AI, and advanced sensors to transform the speed and accuracy of maritime monitoring.
Developing shared operational frameworks that enable interoperability and trust across navies, coast guards, and civilian agencies.
Mobilising sustainable funding models for MDA capabilities, from international partnerships to innovative financing instruments.
Expanding dialogue and cooperation across regions, sectors, and communities to ensure inclusive and resilient maritime security.
Anchored in the commitments of the Apia Oceans Declaration and the Commonwealth MDA Summit 2025, this second summit will convene policymakers, naval leaders, industry innovators, and the diplomatic community. Together, we will move beyond discussion to action—crafting new recommendations, forging deeper partnerships, and driving practical interventions that strengthen MDA across the Commonwealth and beyond.
When
Location
- Stanley Park, Vancouver, BC V6G 1Z4, Canada
