48th AnnualConference on
Oceans Law & Policy
“Developing World Approaches to Ocean Governance: Perspectives from the Indian Ocean Rim”
Shaping the Future of Ocean Governance
Where maritime law meets innovation, and developing-world perspectives drive global solutions.
Conference Overview
The 48th Conference on Oceans Law & Policy (COLP48) is a global forum advancing maritime stability, security, and sustainable development. This year’s edition, held in New Delhi, focuses on the unique perspectives and contributions of the Indian Ocean Rim and the developing world.
Global Perspectives
Explore diverse approaches to ocean governance from developing nations, especially the Indian Ocean Rim.
Legal Frameworks
Address pressing legal questions and propose regulatory solutions in international maritime law.
Collaborative Action
Foster multilateral cooperation and stakeholder engagement for sustainable ocean governance.
Practical Policy Solutions
Develop implementable policy recommendations addressing challenges unique to developing nations.
Planetary Priorities
Respond to the triple planetary crisis of biodiversity loss, climate change, and ocean pollution in the Indian Ocean.
Ocean Tech & AI
Explore the role of emerging technologies and AI in monitoring, managing, and protecting marine ecosystems.
Security & Seabed Mining
Discuss maritime security and seabed mineral extraction across the Indian Ocean region.
Voices of the Global South
Highlight the leadership, vision, and unique contributions of Indian Ocean states and SIDS.
Conference Structure
The four-day program includes a BBNJ workshop, keynote addresses, panel sessions, parallel thematic tracks, and a cultural field tour. Key sessions cover maritime law, AI in ocean governance, seabed mining, climate and pollution, SIDS interests, and dispute settlement.
Strategic Significance
COLP48 marks the first time this historic event is held in the Indian subcontinent. Hosted by Gujarat Maritime University in partnership with global institutions, the conference aims to amplify voices from the Global South and catalyze action for equitable, inclusive, and sustainable ocean governance.
Conference Program
Four days of intensive discussions, workshops, and networking opportunities covering all aspects of ocean law and policy.
BBNJ Clinic Workshop & Welcome Ceremony
Full Day
BBNJ Clinic Workshop
Separate Programme. Venue: The Ashok Hotel, New Delhi.
18:00 - 18:10
Welcome and Introduction
By invitation only.
- MoC: Dr. Abhay Singh
Director (SMLPA), Gujarat Maritime University
18:15 - 19:00
Keynote Addresses
- Dr. M. Ravichandran
Secretary, Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES)
- S. Hasanthi Urugodawatte DissanayakeRemote
Additional Secretary/Ocean Affairs, Environment & Climate Change and Consular Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment & Tourism - Sri Lanka
- Dato' Monaliza binti SuhaimiRemote
Director General, Maritime Institute of Malaysia
19:00 - 20:30
Evening Reception & Cultural Events
Venue: The Ashok Hotel, New Delhi.
Conference Technical Day One
Conference Technical Day Two
Cultural Field Tour
Distinguished Speakers
Learn from world-renowned experts, policymakers, and thought leaders in ocean law and marine governance.
Chief Guest
Shri Sarbananda Sonowal
Hon'ble Union Cabinet Minister
Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Government of India
An eminent leader and the Hon'ble Union Cabinet Minister for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways. Shri Sonowal brings a wealth of experience and a visionary perspective on India's maritime future, championing policies for a robust and sustainable blue economy.
Our Esteemed Keynote Speakers
Panel Speakers & Moderators
Rapporteurs
Global Collaboration
We proudly partner with global thought leaders and institutions to shape the future of maritime law and ocean governance.
Supported By
Esteemed Partners
Gujarat Maritime University
Stockton Center for International Law
World Maritime University - Sasakawa Global Ocean Institute
Korea Maritime Institute
Japan Institute for International Affairs
Centre for Climate Change Law and Governance at the University of Copenhagen
IMO International Maritime Law Institute
The Nippon Foundation
Athens Public International Law Center
Center for International Law
National and Kapodistrian University of Athens
Norwegian Center for the Law of the Sea
National Maritime Foundation
London School of Economics
Organizing Committee
Prof. (Dr.) S. Shanthakumar
Provost, GMU & Director, GNLU
Prof. James Kraska
Chair, Stockton Center for International Law, UNSWC
Prof. Ronán Long
Director, WMU-Sasakawa Global Ocean Institute
Commander Chris Hutton
Judge Advocate General Corps, Stockton Center for International Law, UNSWC
Professor Raul Pete Pedrozo
Professor of the Law, Stockton Center for International Law, UNSWC
Prof. (Dr.) Tanuja Kaushik
Dean Academic Affairs-GMU
Dr. Abhay Singh
Director (I/C), SMLPA, GMU
Ms. Shalini
Assistant Professor of Law, GMU
Ms. Arundathi M S
Teaching & Research Associate, SMLPA, GMU
Ms. Shreya Kankas
Case Counsel (Trainee), GIMAC
Ms. Mili Trivedi
Teaching & Research Associate, GMU
Mr. Rajath K. U.
Case Counsel (Trainee), GMU
Dr. Tafsir Matin Johansson
Associate Professor
Mr. Suriya Narayanan Sundararajan
PhD Candidate
Ms. Mercedes Troisi Allende
Project and Operations Assistant
LT Col Eslinger Todd
US Naval War College
Meghan Marzano
Contractor, Network and Simulation Technologies Inc. (Netsimco), Stockton Center for International Law, U.S. Naval War College
Ms. Elnaz Barjandi
Programme and Operations Manager
Our Esteemed Venue & Logistics
We are honored to host this distinguished gathering in the heart of New Delhi, at a venue celebrated for its unparalleled facilities and seamless integration with India's vibrant cultural tapestry.
The Ashok Hotel, A Legacy of Grandeur
Diplomatic Enclave
New Delhi, India
"A beacon of Indian hospitality, The Ashok Hotel offers an exquisite blend of tradition and modernity, making it the ideal setting for dialogues of global significance."
The Ashok Hotel, a landmark in New Delhi's diplomatic area, is distinguished for hosting international conferences. It offers a comprehensive suite of facilities, including multiple grand halls, cutting-edge audio-visual technology, and acclaimed culinary services, ensuring a seamless and productive experience for all delegates.
World-Class
Conference Facilities
Unrivaled
Culinary Experience
Seamless Connectivity to Delhi
Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) offers direct connectivity to major global cities.
- Approx. 12-15 km from venue (depending on terminal)
- Travel time: 25-45 min by taxi (subject to traffic; 8 AM - 10 AM and 5 PM - 8 PM peak hours)
- Airport Express Metro to Shivaji Stadium (10-15 min taxi/auto from there)
- Pre-paid taxi counters and ride-sharing (Uber, Ola) widely available
- Hotel shuttle services recommended to pre-book
New Delhi is extensively connected by rail to all major cities across India.
- NDLS: 7-9 km | NZM: 10-12 km | DLI: 10-12 km from venue
- Travel time: 20-40 min by taxi (subject to traffic)
- Delhi Metro (Yellow Line) access from NDLS/DLI to Jor Bagh/Lok Kalyan Marg
- Pre-paid taxi services and ride-sharing readily available from stations
A comprehensive network of local transport options ensures convenient travel within the city.
- Delhi Metro: Nearest stations Jor Bagh (Yellow Line) & Lok Kalyan Marg (Yellow Line)
- Metro operates: Approx. 5:30 AM - 11:30 PM
- Ride-sharing services (Uber, Ola) offer convenient door-to-door travel
- Auto-rickshaws available for shorter distances (negotiate fare or use meter)
- Check for dedicated conference/hotel shuttle services
Curated Accommodation Options
- 5-star luxury
- Conference shuttle
- Spa & wellness
- Multiple restaurants
- Business center
- Free WiFi
- Airport shuttle
- Conference rates
- Outdoor pool
- Multiple dining options
- Business facilities
- Modern amenities
- Modern design
- Rooftop restaurant
- Fitness center
- Group discounts
Exquisite Fine Dining Experiences
Jamavar
Cuisine: North Indian
Authentic Indian curries and kebabs in a luxurious setting.
Megu
Cuisine: Japanese
Exquisite Japanese cuisine with a focus on sushi, sashimi, and robatayaki.
Le Cirque Signature
Cuisine: French, Italian
Modern French and Italian delicacies with breathtaking city views (rooftop).
Orient Express
Cuisine: Modern European
An award-winning restaurant offering a culinary journey through Europe in a train-like setting.
Spicy Duck
Cuisine: Sichuan & Cantonese
Contemporary Chinese dining with authentic flavors from Sichuan and Canton.
Loya
Cuisine: North Indian
Rediscover authentic and long-preserved North Indian culinary traditions.
Bukhara
Cuisine: North-West Frontier
Iconic, award-winning restaurant known for its rustic North-West Frontier cuisine, especially kebabs.
Dum Pukht
Cuisine: Awadhi
Experience royal Awadhi cuisine, specializing in slow-cooked delicacies.
Avartana
Cuisine: South Indian (Progressive)
Innovative and progressive South Indian cuisine, offering a unique sensory experience.
Kiyan
Cuisine: World Cuisine (European edge)
Alfresco dining amidst beautiful water bodies, offering global cuisine with a European flair.
Kheer
Cuisine: Indian (Contemporary)
Vibrant Indian fine dining with live cooking stations and a focus on Indian street food elevated.
Discover the Vibrancy of New Delhi
Red Fort
Historic Mughal fortress
India Gate
Iconic war memorial
Lotus Temple
Architectural marvel
Chandni Chowk
Bustling market with authentic cuisine
Qutub Minar
UNESCO world heritage tower
Humayun’s Tomb
Mughal garden tomb
Akshardham
Modern temple complex
National Museum
Cultural heritage showcase
Lodhi Gardens
Green park with tombs
Rashtrapati Bhavan
Presidential palace
Contact Us
Have questions about the conference? Get in touch with us through any of the contacts listed below.
Email Enquiries
General Enquiries
colp48@gmu.edu.inDr. Abhay Singh
abhay.singh@gmu.edu.inMs. Arundathi M.S
arundathi.ms@gmu.edu.inAddress
Gujarat Maritime University, Transitory Campus
At GNLU Campus, Attalika Avenue Knowledge Corridor
Koba, Gandhinagar, Gujarat – 382426, India
Office Hours (IST)
Mon – Fri: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sat: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM