Over the past few months, Master of Marine Policy student Erinn Bell has been interning with the Global Ocean Forum (GOF), a non-governmental international organization (NGO) whose mission is to promote sustainable development, healthy marine ecosystems, and good governance of the ocean. As the 2025 Dr. Biliana Cicin-Sain Ocean and Climate Change Intern, Erinn had the opportunity to attend the second session of the Preparatory Commission, at which the BBNJ Agreement (Agreement under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction) was discussed, and help with the GOF’s side event. Her main task was assisting in the development of the COP30 Virtual Ocean Pavilion and, through that, she also presented at the preview event and was involved in the youth-led interviews. Additionally, Erinn provided research support in the development of the Report on Assessed Progress on Ocean and Climate Action: 2024-2025 and day-to-day administrative tasks for the GOF. Through her research and administrative duties these past few months, Erinn has deepened her understanding of ocean governance and reinforced her passion for ocean conservation.
