Unveiled at the 2025 UN Ocean Summit by President von der Leyen, the Pact is backed by an unprecedented €1 billion investment in ocean conservation, marine science, and sustainable fishing practices. This funding marks a major step toward preserving marine biodiversity and building climate resilience across Europe's seas.
The European Ocean Pact unifies all EU ocean-related policies under a single, coordinated framework. It promotes collaboration among Member States, regions, fishers, innovators, researchers, investors, and civil society, advancing shared responsibility for the future of our oceans.
Six priority areas will guide the Pact's implementation:
Restoring Ocean Health: Helping Member States rehabilitate degraded coastal and marine habitats.
Strengthening the Sustainable Blue Economy: Enhancing the EU maritime industry and launching a Blue Generational Renewal Strategy to attract young professionals to marine science, ocean technology, and sustainable fisheries.
Supporting Coastal, Island, and Outermost Regions: Developing tailored strategies to promote resilience and economic opportunity in these vulnerable areas.
Boosting Maritime Security and Defence: Deepening cooperation between EU coast guards and strengthening maritime border protection.
Advancing Ocean Research and Innovation: Launching an ambitious EU Ocean Observation Initiative to expand marine knowledge and skills.
Promoting Ocean Diplomacy and Global Governance: Leading international efforts against illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing.
In addition, the Commission has pledged to halve plastic and nutrient pollution and restore 20% of Europe's marine ecosystems by 2030. To support accountability, an EU Ocean Pact dashboard will track progress, and a dedicated Ocean Act, to be adopted by 2027, will enshrine these commitments into law.
The European Ocean Pact is more than a policy—it is a promise. A promise to safeguard our shared blue heritage, to power innovation and prosperity through sustainability, and to ensure that future generations inherit oceans that are healthy, resilient, and full of life.
