The conservation of marine mammals such as spotted seals and finless porpoises is essential for maintaining the health and biodiversity of marine ecosystems in North-East Asia. Despite existing national and regional efforts, there is no structured, transboundary, and science-based cooperation to address shared threats such as habitat degradation, bycatch, and pollution. The IUCN Red List classifies the finless porpoise as Endangered and the spotted seal as Least Concern, highlighting differing levels of risk but a shared need for strengthened conservation responses. Global frameworks such as SDG 14 and the Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF), particularly its “30x30” target, underscore the importance of enhancing marine protections, including for migratory species.

This Expert Group Meeting (EGM), organized under NEAMPAN, seeks to serve as a starting point for structured dialogue on marine mammal conservation in the subregion. It will bring together experts and stakeholders to share national policies, scientific insights, and explore collaborative pathways aligned with global and regional goals. Through this meeting, NEAMPAN aims to help shape a coordinated approach for transboundary marine mammal conservation and identify opportunities for future action.