Managing conflicts of interest at the International Seabed Authority

As we approach the 31st session in Kingston in July 2026, this invitation only webinar aims to assist the International Seabed Authority (ISA) delegations in understanding governance and integrity challenges as well as conflict of interest issues.

The session will provide a primer on the issues of integrity and accountability at the ISA with Hannah Lily, an independent lawyer and expert on the regulation of deep seabed mining with extensive experience in advising ISA delegations. 

During the 60-minute session, we will explore (1) integrity issues emanating from structural and procedural facets of the ISA, and (2) the issue of contractor ‘NGO observer’ applications. This is followed by a Q&A. 

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 Anti-Corruption Resource Centre

Robert Forster – Advisor, U4 Anti-Corruption Resource Centre

  Agenda

• Welcome and opening remarks – Hilde Selbervik (U4-CMI)
• Framing the discussion: conflict of interest risks at the ISA – Robert Forster (U4-CMI)
• Two conflict of interest challenges at the ISA: (1) structural and governance challenges and (2) the role of private contractors at the ISA – Hannah Lily (independent expert)
• Participant exchange: Reflections on issues - Moderator: Robert Forster (U4-CMI)
• Concluding reflections & next steps in preparation for ISA Council Session, July 2026