Regions and cities come together in Nice to strengthen coastal adaptation and shape inclusive global ocean governance.
The UN Ocean Conference 2025 is taking place in Nice (France) from 7-13 June, jointly organised by France and Costa Rica. The delegation of the European Committee of the Regions (CoR) is joining forces with other EU institutions, policy makers and elected officials from coastal cities and regions around the world to advocate for resilient global ocean governance.
Recognising the ocean’s essential role in sustaining life, regulating climate, supporting livelihoods and supporting global food security and trade, the Conference brings together national and local governments, international institutions, scientists, civil society and the private sector to support additional and urgent action to conserve and sustainably use oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development.
The Ocean Rise & Coastal Resilience Summit on 7 June officially launched the Ocean Rise & Coastal Resilience Coalition, an ambitious global initiative that joins forces of coastal cities and regions to address sea level rise and other climate change related impacts. The Coalition’s goal is to help 1 billion people in 1 000 cities and regions to build collective resilience and develop adaptation strategies. The CoR’s involvement ensures that the voice of Europe’s coastal regions is central to this urgent global response.
The conference will conclude with the adoption of the Nice Ocean Action Plan. In this political declaration, the CoR calls for a stronger role for local and regional authorities in global ocean governance. The CoR delegation calls for a shift from multilateral to multi-level governance, ensuring that local and regional authorities are fully involved in shaping ocean-related policies to reflect local needs. Given their responsibilities for biodiversity, tourism, infrastructure, fisheries and climate change adaptation, the meaningful inclusion of local and regional authorities is essential for more effective, resilient and inclusive ocean governance.
More information: European Committee of the Regions
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