The European Commission has introduced the European Ocean Pact, a comprehensive initiative aimed at addressing the pressing challenges facing the ocean. The pact seeks to reaffirm Europe’s leadership in ocean governance by integrating existing laws and initiatives into a unified framework.
“The ocean is facing many challenges, including climate change, pollution, and overexploitation of marine resources, which require urgent action,” stated the Commission. The European Ocean Pact aims to tackle these issues through a coordinated approach across all policy areas.
The ocean plays a crucial role in sustaining life on Earth, providing oxygen, food for billions, and regulating the climate. It also supports economic activities such as energy production and trade. With 40% of its population living near the sea, the EU has significant interests in maritime matters.
The pact introduces six priorities: restoring ocean health and productivity; boosting sustainable competitiveness of the blue economy; supporting coastal communities; advancing research and innovation; enhancing maritime security; and strengthening international governance.
A key feature of the pact is an Ocean Act proposal by 2027 to modernize maritime spatial planning. Other initiatives include establishing an Ocean Board for implementation oversight and launching an EU Ocean Pact Dashboard to track progress.
The pact emphasizes fostering innovation in renewable energy, clean shipping, aquaculture, and other sectors to enhance competitiveness. It also aims to strengthen fisheries’ resilience through policy revisions and promote sustainable practices globally.
Support for coastal communities includes developing strategies for islands and outermost regions. Initiatives for young people involve creating an EU Ocean Youth Ambassador Network and offering internships under the EU4Ocean coalition.
To improve marine knowledge, the pact will launch an ambitious observation initiative with a digital twin of the ocean. This will aid decision-making in conservation efforts.
Amid growing geopolitical tensions affecting maritime security, the pact calls for enhanced cooperation among coast guards and investments in technology to counter threats effectively.
Internationally, it supports multilateralism in governance aligned with UN Sustainable Development Goals. The upcoming UN Ocean Conference will be a platform to advance these priorities further.
For more information or media inquiries:
Maciej Berestecki
Spokesperson
Phone: +32 2 29 66483
Email: [email protected]
Anna Wartberger
Press Officer
Phone: +32 2 29 82054
Email: [email protected]
