A call for evidence to shape the European Oceans Pact has been launched by the European Commission, with the political initiative aimed at promoting sustainable ocean management and ensuring the health, resilience and productivity of the oceans and the prosperity of the EU’s coastal communities.
The pact was announced by President von der Leyen in her political guidelines for the next European Commission (2024-2029).
Brussels’ call for evidence will run until 17 February 2025, with the Commission expecting to receive a wide range of contributions from stakeholders, experts and citizens. The feedback collected will be used to shape the European Oceans Pact, which the Commission aims to present in time for the 3rd UN Ocean Conference in June 2025.
The European Oceans Pact seeks to foster a broader, integrated and holistic approach to ocean governance across all sectors, including both internal and external policies. In particular, it aims to:
- Maintain a healthy, resilient, and productive ocean
- Promote a sustainable and competitive blue economy, including fisheries and aquaculture
- Work towards a comprehensive agenda for marine knowledge, research and innovation, and investment
