Globally, oceans face a range of threats. As efforts to develop sustainable blue or ocean economies accelerate, the need for evidence-based policymaking has never been more pressing. The good news is that there is a growing understanding of how the science– policy interface can be strengthened. Methodological approaches, core principles and case studies of effective science–policy engagement are becoming more widely available. There are also a multitude of mechanisms and platforms that can provide science, information and decision-making support at the highest level. Yet, researchers continue to face challenges in supporting policy uptake of their findings. This policy briefing seeks to provide insights to strengthen the science–policy interface for enhanced governance of the Western Indian Ocean region’s marine and coastal systems.
