UN Ocean Conference: A Pivotal Plan for Ocean Protection

The UN Ocean Conference, held in Nice, France, from June 9-13, 2025, focused on accelerating global action to protect the ocean. Three key priorities were highlighted: accelerating global action for ocean protection, funding and developing the blue economy, and strengthening marine science knowledge for effective policy-making. The conference also emphasized the urgent need for ratification of the High Seas Treaty, which aims to protect marine biodiversity in the two-thirds of the world's oceans that lie outside national boundaries. Currently, only about 1% of these waters are protected. "The High Seas Treaty aims to protect marine life in international waters," explains Siobhan McCall of CGTN. The conference is expected to produce a concrete plan of action, the Nice Ocean Action Plan, which will serve as a pivotal framework for future global ocean conservation efforts. This plan is crucial for achieving the global target of protecting 30% of coastal and marine areas by 2030. The treaty's adoption in 2023 requires ratification by 60 nations before it comes into force. The UN Ocean Conference represents a significant step towards collaborative global action for ocean conservation and sustainable development.