From June 9 to 13, 2025, Nice will become the global epicenter for ocean protection. The 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC) will bring together heads of state, scientists, NGOs, and economic stakeholders to strengthen international action in the face of the growing threats to our seas.
Covering 71% of the Earth’s surface, the ocean plays a crucial role in climate regulation. It stores a large amount of carbon and produces about half of the oxygen we breathe. It is also a reservoir of biodiversity and a central pillar of the global economy. Yet it is under immense pressure: climate change, plastic pollution, acidification, overfishing…
Unprecedented international mobilization in Nice
The 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference will gather over 150 delegations, including 50 heads of state, with all 193 UN member countries invited. Brazil, host of the upcoming COP30, and the United States have already confirmed their participation. The European Union will be strongly represented, notably by Ursula von der Leyen and several European Commissioners.
The summit will be preceded by three key events: the One Ocean Science Congress (June 4–6 in Nice), the Blue Economy and Finance Forum (June 7–8 in Monaco), and the Ocean Rise & Coastal Resilience Coalition Conference (June 7 in Nice).
Kick-off on June 8, World Oceans Day
Before the official opening, a maritime parade in the Bay of Angels will launch the festivities on June 8. Heads of state are expected to arrive the day before the conference for diplomatic meetings and ceremonial gatherings.
Starting June 9, morning plenary sessions will offer a platform for delegations to announce their ocean commitments. Afternoons will be dedicated to “Ocean Action Panels,” multi-stakeholder dialogues bringing together states, scientists, NGOs, and businesses to promote the implementation of concrete solutions.
The goal of UNOC 3 is clear: move from words to action. Three strategic pillars will guide the discussions: finalize multilateral agreements on the high seas, still insufficiently ratified; boost funding for marine conservation and the sustainable blue economy; and accelerate the dissemination of scientific knowledge to inform political decisions.
The highlight of the event will be the adoption of the “Nice Ocean Action Plan”, a political declaration and a catalog of voluntary commitments from participating stakeholders.
Source: madeinmarseille
