International Treaty Review of the Manado Ocean Declaration (MOD) 2009 and its Implications for Indonesia Blue Economy

Abstract

The article entitled Review of International Agreements on the Manado Ocean Declaration (MOD) 2009 and Its Implications for the Blue Economy in Indonesia aims to analyze the legal position of the declaration in the framework of international law and its impact on Indonesian maritime policies. The Manado Ocean Declaration 2009 was adopted at the World Ocean Conference in Manado, emphasizing the crucial role of the ocean in addressing climate change, protecting marine biodiversity, and supporting sustainable development, although it remains a non-binding soft law instrument. This research applies a normative legal approach by examining primary legal instruments such as MOD 2009, the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea 1982, and Law No. 32 of 2014 on Marine Affairs, supported by secondary academic literature. The results indicate that MOD significantly influenced Indonesia to adopt blue economy-based policies, including the Blue Carbon Program, ecosystem-based fisheries management, maritime diplomacy through the Coral Triangle Initiative, and the integration of ocean governance into the Long-Term Development Plan 2005–2025. Nevertheless, implementation still faces challenges, including weak regulatory frameworks, limited human and financial resources, and low awareness among coastal communities. In conclusion, although not legally binding, MOD serves as a moral guideline that strengthens Indonesia’s maritime diplomacy and supports the global sustainable development agenda.