The world is watching over the selection of the next «top diplomat» to lead the United Nations, as the term of the current Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres (from Portugal), will expire on 31 December 2026. Amid international geopolitical turmoil (in today’s turbulent times) and the UN’s credibility crisis, the stakes of the vote are «exceptionally high» (1). There are currently four individuals in the race, three of whom are from the Latin American and the Caribbean region

The Ocean covers 71% of the Earth’s surface, providing vital marine ecosystem services that support human society and its sustainable development. Yet, climate change and biodiversity crises are threatening to change the marine environment for generations to come. In response, a global commitment provides hope that 30% of the Ocean will be protected in the near future. Eye-level view of a coral reef teeming with marine life What are MPAs? “Marine protected areas”(MPAs) (1) a