Population ageing is a defining global trend of the time. People are living longer, and more are older than ever before. Spectacular improvements in health and survival and reductions in fertility have driven this momentous shift, which has begun or is expected to begin soon in all countries and areas.

Responding to COVID-19 and Recovering Better is a compilation volume of UN DESA’s policy brief series released during the period of April-June, focusing on the economic and social impact of COVID-19. It presents detailed analysis and solid evidence needed for effective decision-making on a number of critical social and economic issues.

Oceans and seas are crucial to sustainable development as they contribute to all aspects of our life on this planet. Although they provide numerous economic, social and environmental benefits, oceans and seas are facing a multitude of local and global challenges caused by human activity and climate change.