Statement by the Executive Secretary
HELCOM today
HELCOM's work encompasses more than two decades of political and environmental achievements, made by countries with widely differing political and economic backgrounds working together to look after the marine environment of the Baltic Sea.
The close proximity of the states surrounding this small, almost landlocked sea, and the great historical and economic importance of the Baltic have always been the main driving forces behind the successful work of HELCOM.
Adapting to a new political environment
The enlargement of the EU will radically change the political environment of the Baltic region. By May 2004, eight out of the nine countries bordering on the Baltic will be members of the European Community.
This will greatly improve the protection of the marine environment, partly thanks to the wider implementation of EU legislation, but also since this will enable HELCOM as the mouthpiece of all the nine countries around the Baltic to promote the adoption in Brussels of specific regulations to protect the Baltic. In this respect, HELCOM will increasingly serve as a bridge between Russia and the EU, ensuring that the same environmental standards are applied throughout the Baltic Sea and its catchment area.
Visions for HELCOM's future
I see the future role of HELCOM as:
- the environmental focal point for the entire Baltic region, and a reliable source of information on the state of the Baltic Sea which can form the basis for decision-making in other international forums;
- an independent regulatory body, issuing regulations to supplement those imposed by other international organisations, in order to cater for the Baltic's specific needs;
- a supervisory body dedicated to ensuring that unified environmental standards are fully implemented throughout the Baltic Sea and its catchment area.
Urgent issues
HELCOM must urgently address several issues to improve the prospects for the Baltic Sea. The most important challenges include: - combating eutrophication - guaranteeing navigational safety - addressing the environmental impacts of fisheries - curbing inputs of hazardous substances.
Working together
HELCOM does not work alone on these issues. Various other inter-governmental organisations operating in the Baltic on European or global level also play an active role in the Baltic region. It is crucial that all these organisations pursue their objectives co-operatively, to ensure that their programmes complement each other efficiently. I would also like to stress the importance of the continued involvement of NGOs. These organisations can ensure that the work of HELCOM is conducted transparently, while also increasing public awareness and support for HELCOM's work.
I am greatly looking forward to working together with all HELCOM's partners, and am grateful for their continuing support in the protection of our common sea – the Baltic.
Anne Christine Brusendorff
Executive Secretary of the Helsinki Commission