WIO Futures 2026 calls for a more resilient ocean economy in the Indian ocean
How can the Western Indian Ocean be better protected while continuing to develop its blue economy? This question brought together researchers, diplomats, policymakers and civil society representatives at WIO (Western Indian Ocean) Futures 2026, held on 18 and 19 May at the Caudan Arts Centre.
The second edition of the conference was organised by the Charles Telfair Centre (CTC), the think tank of Charles Telfair Education, in collaboration with the IEEE Oceanic Engineering Society, Odysseo Foundation and the Centre for Earth Science and Technology, with the support of the Indian Ocean Rim Association.
Under the theme “Building a Resilient Ocean Economy through Science, Policy, and Community,” discussions focused on maritime governance, ocean technologies, blue economy financing and regional geopolitical dynamics.
The Minister of Agro-Industry, Fisheries and the Blue Economy, Arvin Boolell, along with several diplomatic representatives, took part in the conference proceedings.
Among the highlights, Tim Collins of the Wildlife Conservation Society presented the findings of the Quieter Western Indian Ocean project. He warned of the rapid increase in maritime traffic, underwater noise pollution and accidental cetacean bycatch across the region, calling for “stronger governance frameworks to protect marine megafauna.”
Another plenary session, dedicated to geopolitical challenges, brought together Professor Christian Bueger, Jagdish Koonjul, former Mauritian Ambassador to the United Nations in New York, and Usha Dwarka-Canabady, former Permanent Representative of Mauritius to the United Nations Office in Geneva. The discussion explored the evolution of ocean governance in a rapidly changing international context.
For her part, Professor Rosabelle Boswell advocated for a more inclusive approach. She argued that the “cultural, spiritual and relational knowledge” of coastal and Indigenous communities should be more fully recognised and integrated into ocean policies.
At the conclusion of the conference, several preliminary recommendations emerged: placing local communities at the centre of marine policies, strengthening the technical capacities of small island states, and improving the translation of scientific data into concrete public policy decisions.
According to Dr Myriam Blin, Head of the Charles Telfair Centre, “this conference laid the foundations for a regional roadmap towards a more resilient ocean economy.”