Assistant Secretary of State for Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs

U.S. Department of State official seal

The Assistant Secretary of State for Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs is a position within the United States Department of State. The Assistant Secretary is responsible for coordinating and implementing U.S. policy on international issues related to the environment, oceans, science, and technology.

History

The position was established in response to the growing importance of environmental and scientific issues in international relations. The role has evolved to address a wide range of global challenges, including climate change, biodiversity, ocean conservation, and sustainable development.

Responsibilities

The Assistant Secretary oversees the Bureau of Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs (OES), which is tasked with formulating and implementing U.S. policy on international environmental, scientific, and technological issues. Key areas of focus include:

• Climate Change: Leading U.S. efforts in international climate negotiations and promoting global climate action.
• Biodiversity: Working to protect endangered species and habitats through international agreements and partnerships.
• Ocean Conservation: Promoting sustainable use of ocean resources and protecting marine ecosystems.
• Science and Technology: Enhancing international cooperation in scientific research and technological innovation.

Bureau of Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs

The Bureau of Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs (OES) is the primary body within the Department of State that supports the Assistant Secretary. The Bureau works with other U.S. government agencies, international organizations, and non-governmental organizations to address global environmental and scientific challenges.

Notable Initiatives

The Assistant Secretary has been involved in several significant initiatives, including:

• The Paris Agreement: A landmark international treaty on climate change.
• The Convention on Biological Diversity: An international agreement aimed at conserving biological diversity.
• The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS): An international treaty that defines the rights and responsibilities of nations concerning their use of the world's oceans.

List of Assistant Secretaries

A list of individuals who have served as Assistant Secretary of State for Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs includes:

• Name 1
• Name 2
• Name 3

See Also

• United States Department of State
• Climate Change Policy of the United States
• International Environmental Agreements
• Marine Conservation