Ocean Relay Forum Connects Global Leaders For Sustainable Ocean Action Beyond UNOC3

The Third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3) in Nice has sparked significant momentum for ocean action. A key event, "The Ocean Relay: From Nice to Abu Dhabi," brought together global and regional leaders to chart a coordinated path for marine health and sustainability. This forum was organised by the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) and France, with MENA Oceans facilitating.

During the event, Richard Brisius of The Ocean Race handed over Nature's Baton to Dr. Sheikha Al Dhaheri of EAD. This baton symbolises the Relay4Nature initiative, which aims to amplify ocean issues at major environmental decision-making events. The forum emphasised the need to maintain focus on ocean action beyond UNOC3, advancing ecosystem health and a regenerative Blue Economy.

Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri highlighted the UAE’s dedication to international cooperation for ocean conservation. "As we convene in Nice and look ahead to Abu Dhabi, it is clear that our collective future depends on unified action for our oceans," she stated. The UAE aims to lead through partnerships aligning coastal and marine priorities, reinforcing science-based policies for lasting impact.

Barbara Pompili, France's Ambassador for the Environment, reiterated France's commitment to ocean protection as a climate regulator and biodiversity reservoir. She noted, "IUCN is a long-standing partner and a key ally in preserving ocean resources." The Nice – Abu Dhabi Manifesto reaffirms shared ambitions to safeguard oceans.

The forum also focused on aligning ocean conservation priorities globally and regionally. It aimed to mobilise state and non-state actors to accelerate progress on Sustainable Development Goal 14 (SDG14). Strengthening partnerships and advancing practical solutions were highlighted as essential for lasting ocean health.

Tatiana Antonelli Abella of Goumbook stressed the importance of sustained momentum: "Taking the outcomes from UNOC3 here in Nice forward, The Ocean Relay has helped lay the foundations of a purpose-driven agenda that bridges science, policy, and ground realities." Collaborative pathways are crucial for turning shared ambition into measurable progress.

Future Outlook

Looking towards Abu Dhabi and beyond, "The Ocean Relay" sets the tone for actionable frameworks delivering change for global ocean systems. Dr. Grethel Aguilar of IUCN emphasised accountability post-UNOC3: "The Ocean Relay has affirmed that the ocean agenda is continuous... it needs sustained commitment." Partnerships are vital to achieving targets like 30x30 within five years.

The panel discussion at the forum explored transformative efforts needed for global collaboration in ocean conservation during the UN Ocean Decade (2021 - 2030). Key outcomes included commitments to align conservation priorities across milestones and policies globally while driving initiatives for coastal resilience.

This pivotal event underscored ongoing efforts required beyond UNOC3, focusing on ecosystem health and enhancing interlinkages between nature agendas. As preparations continue for upcoming events like the IUCN World Conservation Congress in Abu Dhabi (October 2025), these discussions aim to translate mandates into coordinated pathways toward transformative change.

With inputs from WAM