The Commission establishes the European Board for the Oceans and seeks expert advice on ocean policy

The European Commission is inviting applications for the European High Level Committee on Oceans, a new expert group set up under the European Ocean Pact.

The call for applications is open for a period of four weeks and offers professionals and organisations the opportunity to help shape the future of ocean governance.

Selection criteria

The Commission will select up to 25 members, taking into account the following criteria:

• Proven experience in areas related to the ocean, the maritime economy and marine or coastal policies (including fisheries), particularly at European and/or international level.
• The skills, experience and seniority of the proposed representatives.
• A good command of English, sufficient to participate actively in discussions.

The role of the high-level expert group will be:

1. To advise the Commission and contribute to the effective implementation of the European Ocean Pact
2. to issue opinions on specific issues related to the Ocean Pact and
3. foster dialogue among members to promote coherence and synergy between EU policies and private sector initiatives.
   In this context, the Board will play a key role in the upcoming ocean observation initiative, supporting ocean knowledge, research and innovation, ocean culture and the maritime economy.

Members will be convened for a first meeting in March 2026 and appointed for a term ofup to five years. Meetings will be held annually. While participation does not include remuneration, travel and subsistence expenses will be reimbursed. 

Representativeness

The European Ocean Council welcomes representatives from civil society and EU organisations with extensive expertise and experience in ocean-related areas. The selected members will ensure geographical representation across all EU countries, enriching the diversity and knowledge of the group.

Background

Launched in June 2025, theEuropean Pact for the Oceans serves as a unifying and coordinated framework for European Union policies and actions related to the oceans. This strategy seeks to better protect the ocean, promote a thriving blue economy, and support the well-being of people living in coastal areas.

The Ocean Pact encompasses a series of initiatives to be developed and implemented. A pillar of its governance structure is the creation of the European High Level Board for the Oceans. 

Professionals and organisations interested in ocean sustainability, maritime industries or coastal policy are encouraged to apply and help shape the future of the EU’s ocean strategy.

The Board will advise the Commission on the effective implementation of the European Ocean Pact, providing expert opinions on specific ocean-related challenges while ensuring policy coherence between EU initiatives and private sector actions. 

More information: European Commission.