The objective of this document is to provide technical advice on the establishment and management of MCPAs and networks of MCPAs. The document contains, in a succinct format, the key relevant information that is needed to make MCPAs function at the national level. The document is a result of a forum in which researchers from around the world came together, reviewed the scientific knowledge base on MCPAs and their contribution to sustainable use, and provided advice on their establishment and management. This report provides a summary of current scientific understanding and best practice approaches to MCPAs, together with references to key literature that can provide further details.