Distinguished Members of the Press,
Thank you for joining us today.
The ocean—our planet’s life-support system—is in a state of emergency. The evidence is overwhelming: rising temperatures, acidifying waters, plastic choking marine life, disappearing habitats, and the relentless overexploitation of resources. The health of the ocean is declining, and with it, the well-being of billions of people who depend on it.
However, there is still time to change our course—if we act boldly and collectively.
From 9 to 13 June 2025, the global community will gather in Nice, France, for the Third United Nations Ocean Conference, or UNOC3. This will not be just another routine meeting. It is a pivotal opportunity to accelerate action and mobilize all stakeholders across sectors and borders.
The theme of this conference says it all: “Accelerating action and mobilizing all actors to conserve and sustainably use the ocean.”
Within this theme, key priorities will be discussed in the ten “Ocean Action Panels.” These panels cover topics including the ocean-based economy, fisheries, pollution, links with climate change and biodiversity, and others.
In addition to the panels and the plenary sessions, several special events will spotlight specific challenges and opportunities. From 4 to 6 June, France will convene the “One Ocean Science Congress”, and on 7 June, the City of Nice and the Ocean Climate Platform will host the “Ocean Rise and Coastal Resilience Summit”. Nearby, Monaco will host the “Blue Economy and Finance Forum” from 7 to 8 June.
UNOC3 will culminate in the adoption of the “Nice Ocean Action Plan” -- a concise, action-oriented declaration, along with new and expanded voluntary commitments. This plan will be our collective blueprint to advance Sustainable Development Goal 14: to conserve and sustainably use the ocean, seas, and marine resources.
This is our moment to transform ambition into action—uniting governments, scientists, businesses, and civil society together in a shared mission.
Members of the Press,
Your role is indispensable. We count on you to convey the urgency and the opportunity of UNOC3 to the world. Your reporting will be vital in disseminating the conference outcomes, raising public awareness, and ensuring that the momentum generated in Nice extends far beyond its shores, compelling continued action.
The future of the ocean is not predetermined. It will be shaped by the decisions we make now.
Let us choose a healthy, resilient ocean—for our generation, and for generations to come.
Before I conclude, I extend my deepest gratitude to the Conference Co-hosts, the Governments of France and Costa Rica, for their visionary leadership and steadfast partnership.
Thank you.