The Ocean Relay: From Nice to Abu Dhabi
This high-level forum aims to serve as a pivotal platform at UNOC3, drawing out a clear outline of key mandates and initiatives that will continue to evolve as the global community moves toward the IUCN World Conservation Congress in Abu Dhabi in October 2025 and the UN Water Conference in December 2026, strengthening alignment across ocean and water policy agendas within broader environmental policies.
Expected outcomes include coordination and continuity across international milestones, increased mobilisation of public and private sector stakeholders, and accelerated funding support for SDG14. By convening global leaders, UN agencies, IUCN representatives, and regional experts, it aims to build lasting momentum and catalyse collaborative, high-impact marine and coastal action beyond Nice.
Expected Outcomes:
- Strategic Alignment for Future Milestones: The forum will draw out a clear outline of key mandates and initiatives that will continue to evolve as the global community moves toward the IUCN World Conservation Congress in October 2025 and the UN Water Conference in December 2026, aligning ocean and water conservation priorities within broader environmental policies.
- Mobilization of Key Stakeholders: The forum will serve as a catalyst for the active mobilization of both state and non-state actors to collaborate on tangible actions. This will accelerate progress on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 14 (SDG14), ensuring a collective commitment toward achieving ocean conservation and sustainable resource management.
- Advancement of Global Ocean Conservation Goals: By bringing together global leaders and practitioners, the forum will help drive forward initiatives that contribute to the global effort of ocean conservation, fostering stronger partnerships and advancing practical solutions for marine resource management.
Agenda:
Date: 10th June 2025
Time: 14:45 – 15:30
Location: Orca Room, La Baleine, Palais des Expositions de Nice, France
| 14:45 – 14:50 | Welcome Address |
| 14:50 – 14:55 | Opening Remarks |
| 14:55 – 15:00 | Keynote Address |
| 15:00 – 15:25 | Panel Discussion: Midway through the UN Ocean Action Decade: What would it take to turn the tide on ocean conservation within this timeframe? |
| 15:25 – 15:30 | Next Destination |