Capacity Building (CB) and Transfer of Marine Technology (TMT) are essential to ensure universal and equitable participation of all States in the future BBNJ implementing agreement. CB/TMT do not stand on their own: they are a tool to implement the new agreement. Activities can be in the form of (i) ensuring equitable access to research data through using a global online open-access data sharing platform and data clearing house mechanism; (ii) using a mechanism for international cooperation in marine scientific research, coordination in global ocean observation, and development of standards, manuals and guidelines and codes of conduct and protocols; and (iii) using a global network of regional training centres to enhance capacity, by training the next generation of scientists and area managers in applying international standards and best practices. These are mainstream themes of the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO and areas in which the Commission already plays an active role within other international processes such as the 2030 Agenda on SDG 14. A consolidated approach to harness all efforts on CB/TMT as means of implementation will be key in ensuring that we deliver on this global agenda. This side event aims to provide an opportunity for informal discussions on CB/TMT in the BBNJ context, and aims to share experience from IOC of UNESCO’s activities. This event is organized by the Mission of Belgium, the Mission of Fiji and by the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO