OIA Defined
In order to achieve NOAA’s Mission: “To understand and predict changes in the Earth’s environment and conserve and manage coastal and marine resources to meet our Nation’s economic, social, and environmental needs,” it is necessary for NOAA to engage internationally.
NOAA Exercises International Leadership
The NOAA Strategic Plan recognizes International Leadership as a priority cross-cut. A world with rapidly shifting political, cultural, and economic dynamics requires Federal agencies involved in world affairs to cultivate fresh approaches and new services to maintain U.S. leadership. Internationally, NOAA supports and promotes national policies and interests in ecosystem-based management, climate change, Earth observation, and weather forecasting and will seek to maximize the mutual benefits of international exchange with its global partners.
NOAA Engages in International Activities
NOAA OIA is managed by the Deputy Assistant Secretary of Commerce for International Affairs who serves as part of NOAA’s Leadership team.
The Deputy Assistant Secretary for International Affairs
The Deputy Assistant Secretary for International Affairs is NOAA’s lead advisor to the Under Secretary/Administrator on international policy issues. He or she is responsible for planning and coordinating NOAA's international programs, and carrying out tasks of special interest related to international activities. He or she exercises a leadership role in establishing policies, guidelines, and procedures for NOAA's international programs, including:
- coordinate NOAA's major international activities including those programs that overlap Assistant Administrators’ or Staff Office Directors’ interests or responsibilities;
- support the development and coordination of NOAA's international policies regarding "trade and environment" issues and the negotiation of trade agreements;
- coordinate NOAA’s interactions on international issues with other federal departments and agencies, as well as other bureaus within the Department;
- develop Administration policy on international issues affecting NOAA;
- coordinate NOAA's participation in United States (U.S.) delegations to international fora; and
- participate in the negotiation of international agreements and appropriate representation of NOAA and the Department at international fora on environmental issues.
The Deputy Assistant Secretary for International Affairs conducts these responsibilities through the following:
- The NOAA Office of International Affairs
- The NOAA International Affairs Council
- Liaison with the International Affairs Offices of each of NOAA’s operating units.