Commission launches call for experts to shape EU ocean policy

The European Commission has established the European Ocean Board, a high-level expert group tasked with advising on implementation of the European Ocean Pact. Today, the Commission opened a four-week call for applications, inviting professionals and organisations to contribute to the future of sustainable ocean governance in the EU.

Twenty-five experts will be appointed for a five-year term, with the first meeting scheduled for March 2026. Professionals and organisations with a stake in ocean sustainability, maritime industries, or coastal policy are encouraged to apply and help shape the future of EU ocean strategy.

The Board will advise the Commission on the effective roll-out of the European Ocean Pact, providing expert opinions on specific ocean-related challenges, while ensuring policy coherence across EU initiatives and private-sector actions. In this context, the Board will play a key role in the upcoming ocean observation initiative, supporting ocean knowledge, research and innovation, ocean literacy and the maritime economy.

The European Ocean Pact, adopted in 2025, sets out a shared vision for healthy, resilient, and sustainably managed seas. The Pact aims to protect marine ecosystems; promote a sustainable blue economy; advance ocean research, knowledge, skills and innovation; enhance maritime security and defence; and strengthen international ocean governance.

Source: European Commission