Consortium for the Study of Maritime Affairs and the Sustainable Blue Economy (CONSMAR)

ASCOMARE is a founding member of the Consortium for the Study of Maritime Affairs and the Sustainable Blue Economy (CONSMAR), established in 2022 as an inter-institutional cooperative framework among the Ankara University National Center for the Sea and Maritime Law (DEHUKAM), the International Centre for Ocean Governance (ICOG) at Western Sydney University, and ASCOMARE. The Consortium was subsequently institutionalised through the CONSMAR Agreement, signed in Strasbourg (France) on 27 March 2026.

CONSMAR serves as a collaborative platform that brings together institutions and experts to discuss, coordinate, and strengthen efforts in the field of the law of the sea, including through the development and implementation of joint project proposals, with a particular focus on the blue economy and the sustainable use of maritime spaces and resources.

The core objectives of CONSMAR are:

• Promoting Sustainability: By fostering dialogue and collaboration among academic institutions, civil society, and stakeholders, CONSMAR aims to elevate standards, practices, and regulations that promote the sustainable use of maritime spaces and resources.
• Addressing Emerging Threats: CONSMAR seeks to tackle new and evolving challenges in the maritime domain that impact sustainability and the development of a robust blue economy.
• Enhancing Cooperation: As a platform for consultation, cooperation, and coordination, CONSMAR ensures that various actors involved in maritime affairs and the blue economy work harmoniously towards shared goals.
• Supporting Capacity Building: CONSMAR is also engaged in initiatives to build the capacity of maritime authorities and stakeholders, enabling them to effectively address challenges related to maritime safety, security, and sustainability.

ASCOMARE serves as Chair of the Steering Committee of CONSMAR for the 2026–2029 term.

For more information on CONSMAR’s activities, organizational structure, or membership opportunities, please contact our Project Coordinator, Marco La Rocca, at info@ascomare.com.