Launch of the European Ocean Board

The European Commission has officially launched the European Ocean Council, a high-level expert group tasked with supporting the implementation of the European Ocean Pact. The EU’s strategy aims to better protect the oceans, promote a thriving blue economy and support coastal communities. 

Chaired by Costas Kadis, Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans, the Council comprises 28 members from a variety of sectors, including trade and business associations, academia, research institutes, NGOs and youth organisations.  

The expert group will be tasked with:

• Advise the Commission on how to achieve the objectives of the European Ocean Pact, including ocean health, the competitiveness of the EU’s blue economy, support for coastal communities, knowledge and research, maritime security and defence, and international ocean governance.
• Provide opinions on specific issues relating to the European Ocean Pact
• Foster dialogue among members to promote coherence and synergy between EU policies and private sector initiatives.  

The Board held its first meeting on 31 March, during which members exchanged views, identified strategic priorities and helped define the Board’s future work programme.

A wide range of expertise:

The 28 members of the Board have been selected following an open call for applications.

Their diverse backgrounds ensure that a variety of perspectives are reflected, enabling the development of informed and inclusive policies based on specialist knowledge and practical experience.

The full list of members is available in the Commission’s Register of Expert Groups and similar bodies.

The Council will complement the work of existing platforms, such as the Fisheries Advisory Councils and the European Blue Forum.

More information: European Commission.