The International Seabed Authority “ISA at 30” programme has awarded a significant grant to a Cook Islands Seabed Minerals Authority (SBMA) led proposal, Women in Scientific Expedition (WISE).

In a statement, SBMA says this award is a testament to the Cook Islands’ growing role in global ocean governance and its commitment to advancing deep-sea research and empowering women in science.

During the opening session of the 29th Assembly of the ISA, outgoing secretary-general Michael Lodge announced the selection of four exceptional project proposals under the ISA Partnership Fund, established in August 2022.

According to SBMA, a multi-donor trust, this fund aims to promote marine scientific research for the benefit of humankind and support capacity development programmes for developing ISA Member States.

“The fund's primary goal is to empower least-developed countries, small island developing states, and landlocked developing countries in ocean affairs, governance, and deep-sea research.”

The WISE programme was awarded USD 100,000 (NZ$164,442).

“This 24-month initiative will include a pioneering deep-sea research expedition to an unexplored area of the South-west Pacific.”

SBMA’s project partners include Kiva Marine, the UK Natural History Museum, and the Hercules Laboratory of the University of Evora, all of whom want to see women in science at the forefront of this endeavour.

In January 2024, the ISA Secretariat invited submissions for project proposals, receiving 18 entries from a wide range of participants, including Member States, academic institutions, NGOs, and private foundations.

Evaluation of proposals was by the ISA Partnership Fund Board, made up of representatives from the ISA Secretariat, the Chairs of the Finance Committee and the Legal and Technical Commission, as well as Member States from LDCs, LLDCs, and SIDS.

“From the Cook Islands’ perspective, this project is more than just an opportunity to expand scientific knowledge — it is to continue the Cook Islands efforts as a leader in promoting gender equality and capacity building in the Pacific region,” said Cook Islands Seabed Minerals Authority.

“This initiative also reflects the Cook Islands’ commitment to responsible ocean stewardship and its belief in the power of collaboration to address complex global challenges. By empowering women from developing nations, particularly in the Pacific, to lead in ocean governance and scientific research, the SBMA is helping to build a more inclusive and sustainable future for all.”