Regulating deep seabed mining: Managing conflicts of interest at the International Seabed Authority

We invite U4 partners to explore governance challenges and how to strengthen the integrity of the International Seabed Authority (ISA) as it moves toward regulating deep seabed mining.

Global attention on seabed mining is intensifying and the ISA – given its complex structure and the intersection of regulatory, commercial, and state interests – is facing increased scrutiny over whether it can act as an impartial and effective regulator.

In the lead-up to the July 2026 ISA Council meeting, this webinar will contribute to ongoing governance discussions by engaging critical conflict-of-interest risks that may affect the institution’s legitimacy.

This event is by invitation only for

• Staff of U4 partner agencies, particularly ISA delegation members.
  U4 Contact: Robert Forster.

Thursday, 11 June 2026
10:30–11:40 CEST (Berlin, Oslo, Stockholm)
9:30–10:40 GMT (London)

Speakers

Hannah Lily – Independent expert in the regulation of deep seabed mining, supporting multiple country delegations at the ISA for over a decade

Hilde Selbervik – Director, U4

Robert Forster – Adviser, U4

Agenda

Welcome and opening remarks – Hilde Selbervik

Framing the discussion: conflict of interest risks at the ISA – Robert Forster

Two conflict of interest challenges at the ISA – Hannah Lily

(1) Structural and governance challenges
(2) The role of private contractors at the ISA

Participant exchange: Reflections on issues – Robert Forster (moderator)

Concluding reflections & next steps in preparation for ISA Council Session, July 2026

See related 2026 U4 Issue
Managing conflicts of interest at the International Seabed Authority