As the International Seabed Authority (ISA) assembly meeting in Jamaica nears its conclusion for 2025, Itirangi Pennycook highlights key moments from a busy and eventful time attending as observers on behalf of Te Ipukarea Society (TIS), writes Itirangi Pennycook.

Continuing from last week at the ISA assembly meeting, TIS president June Hosking has made numerous interventions speaking on behalf of the organisation, and as requested, for other like-minded civil societies.

This week began with the “Underwater Cultural Heritage (UCH)” side event on Monday, where indigenous speakers presented their perspective on what UCH means to them. The speakers included Hinano Murphy from Tetiaroa Society in Tahiti, Itirangi Pennycook and June Hosking from Te Ipukarea Society, as well as Ekolu Lindsey and Solomon (Uncle Sol) Kaho’ohalahala from the Maui Nui Makai Network in Hawaii.

UCH has its detractors because much of it seems intangible, too spiritual or ‘airy-fairy’, so can’t easily be seen, understood or measured. However, as an example, the ancient intangible concept of mana tiaki in modern Rarotonga is set in action in many ways, making it tangible. Look at the Cook Islands’ turtle monitoring programme that integrates the tradition of mana tiaki with citizen science and facial recognition software to monitor and track visiting turtles. This showcases how cultural values/beliefs (intangible) and technology (tangible) work hand in hand to support ocean conservation – giving evidence that the intangible does become tangible.

Te Ipukarea Society also raised awareness of the traditional Cook Islands practice of pito enua – burying the umbilical cord in the earth as a symbol of connection to the land, ocean and sky. This practice reflects the deeply rooted responsibility we have as guardians of the environment.

The message is clear: protecting the ocean is not just about conservation, it is about safeguarding future generations. 

At the ISA assembly, attendees have explored the long-term environmental impacts of seabed mining, sparking crucial discussions on the sustainability of deep-sea ecosystems. The pressing concern remains whether the ecosystems can recover or if irreversible damage will be inflicted. Many delegations emphasised the need for extensive research before proceeding with large scale extraction. 

One of the most contentious debates centred on the proposed removal of environmental goals and objectives from the main seabed mining regulations. Russia and the African group advocated for these goals to be moved to a separate policy (one that does not yet exist), raising concerns about weakening environmental protections. This move was met with strong opposition from NGOs and members of a dedicated working group who had carefully crafted the goals within the main regulations. In response, the ISA president agreed to “resurrect” the paragraph, a term coined by Micronesia, ensuring that environmental commitments remain a priority in the ongoing regulatory framework. 

The overarching theme was that the ocean is more than just a resource, it is a vital, living entity that sustains life on earth. The dialogue reinforced the idea that we do not own the ocean, we are merely caretakers entrusted with its protection.

Despite resistance from opposing delegations, support for environmental safeguards is growing. More nations are recognising the need for a precautionary approach, acknowledging the irreversible consequences of reckless seabed mining. The assembly meeting also provided an invaluable platform for amplifying the voices of indigenous advocates, determined to make a difference. 

Being part of these discussions has been both thrilling and inspiring. I recognise that the work is far from over, but I can see momentum building toward a future where sustainability and cultural heritage will guide decision-making at all levels. My takeaway is renewed hope: hope for my future, my family, my Cook Islands people, and indigenous peoples everywhere.