UN Ocean Conference Kicks Off in France to Drive Global Marine Conservation Initiatives
The UN Ocean Conference begins in France, aiming to boost global efforts for marine conservation and sustainable use of ocean resources.
The third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3) commenced on Monday in the vibrant port city of Nice, in southern France, assembling a diverse array of global leaders, scientists, activists, and representatives from the private sector. Taking place under the theme "Accelerating action and mobilizing all actors to conserve and sustainably use the ocean," this pivotal gathering spotlights the urgent need to address mounting challenges faced by the world’s oceans.
Co-hosted by France and Costa Rica, UNOC3 draws delegations from around the world, reflecting a broad commitment to global ocean governance. High on the agenda are intensive discussions on how to strengthen international cooperation for the conservation and sustainable use of marine resources. The conference serves as a crucial platform to advance progress on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 14 (SDG14), which centers on safeguarding oceans, seas, and marine resources.
This year’s conference puts a spotlight on three key priorities: achieving concrete outcomes in ongoing multilateral ocean negotiations, mobilizing critical investment for ocean health and the sustainable blue economy, and enhancing the production and dissemination of marine science. Delegates will deliberate strategies to close funding gaps for SDG14, which remains among the least well-financed of all the Sustainable Development Goals, despite the ocean’s significance for environmental health, economic livelihoods, and climate resilience.
During the opening session, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres delivered a stark warning about the deteriorating state of the world’s oceans, calling them “the ultimate shared resource, but we are failing it.” He stressed the imperative of both robust multilateralism and increased national investments, underlining the interconnected nature of global marine challenges and solutions.
The five-day event is structured around 10 high-level plenary sessions and an additional 10 “Ocean Action Panels,” where participants are expected to announce new initiatives, forge partnerships, and share best practices for ocean conservation. As delegates work toward a concluding declaration, the eyes of the world are on Nice, with hopes that intensified cooperation will accelerate meaningful progress in protecting one of Earth’s most precious shared resources.
