The vulnerable marine ecosystems database was developed in collaboration with the regional bodies with mandates to manage deep-sea fisheries in areas beyond national jurisdiction (ABNJ). It is a compilation of information on management measures taken to reduce current or potential impact on areas where VMEs are known or likely to occur.

The database is designed to facilitate the work of scientists and managers working on these fisheries and also to promote transparency and accessibility of work that has been done in relation to VMEs to the general public.

The content of the database is linked to the data providers (e.g. RFMOs and other multi-lateral bodies) and users have access the primary source of the information through direct links.

This database was developed specifically in response to a request from the UN General Assembly (61/105, paragraph 90) to create a database of information on vulnerable marine ecosystems (VMEs) in ABNJ. It has been developed within the FAO Deep-sea Fisheries Programme to promote the use of the International Guidelines for the Management of Deep-Sea Fisheries in the High Seas that provides guidance to States and Regional Fisheries Management Organizations or Arrangements (RFMO/As) to ensure the long-term conservation and sustainable use of marine living resources in the deep seas. This includes preventing Significant Adverse Impacts on vulnerable marine ecosystems.