Young Ocean Citizens Unite to Shape Global Action Ahead of UN Ocean Conference – Boulogne-sur-Mer, France – March 28, 2025 – In a powerful demonstration of youth-led action for ocean conservation, 60 young “Ocean Citizens” from five continents gathered at Nausicaá, the National Sea Center, for the Citizens of the Ocean Summit from March 25-28, 2025. The summit, held just two months ahead of the 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC) in Nice (June 9-13, 2025), provided a critical platform for youth to collaborate, learn, and develop a Manifesto for the Ocean—a document that will be presented to world leaders at UNOC to demand urgent action for ocean protection and sustainable use.
A Global Youth Movement for the Ocean
For these young leaders, the ocean is more than just a distant ecosystem—it is their home, workplace, and passion. Some come from coastal communities directly impacted by climate change, others are scientists studying marine ecosystems, and many are activists fighting for stronger ocean policies. Despite their different backgrounds, they share a common goal: to reshape the global approach to ocean conservation and governance.
The summit provided four days of intensive training in environmental advocacy, equipping participants with the skills to effectively engage with policymakers, media, and the public. Through workshops, group discussions, and networking sessions, they developed collective strategies to address the most pressing challenges facing our oceans today.
There was also a state of joy and cultural exchange, beautifully enriched by the New Zealand participants, who shared their songs and language as indigenous people, bringing a deep sense of connection and heritage to the gathering.
And what better way to end the day than under the historic vaults of the Castle Museum of Boulogne-sur-Mer? A perfect setting to reflect, connect, and dream bigger for the blue planet.
A Manifesto for Change
At the heart of the summit was the development of a Manifesto for the Ocean, a bold declaration of priorities and proposed solutions that youth believe should guide ocean policies. The document focuses on five key challenges outlined by the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development:
- Changing humanity’s relationship with the ocean – Promoting ocean literacy, encouraging responsible consumption, and fostering cultural and economic connections to the sea.
- Unlocking ocean-based solutions to climate change – Emphasizing the role of blue carbon ecosystems, marine renewable energy, and sustainable fisheries in addressing the climate crisis.
- Protecting and restoring marine ecosystems and biodiversity – Strengthening marine protected areas, restoring damaged habitats, and enhancing global commitments to biodiversity conservation.
- Developing a sustainable and equitable ocean economy – Ensuring that economic growth from marine resources benefits coastal communities and prioritizes social and environmental justice.
- Understanding and eliminating marine pollution from source to sea – Addressing plastic waste, chemical pollutants, and other threats to ocean health through science-based solutions and stronger regulations.
A delegation of youth leaders from the summit will present this manifesto at UNOC in June, ensuring that youth perspectives are at the center of global discussions on ocean governance.
Empowering Young Leaders Through Advocacy and Media Training
The summit provided participants with training in environmental advocacy, media engagement, and coalition building, equipping them with the tools to drive meaningful change in their communities and beyond. Through workshops and collaborative discussions, they explored solutions to global ocean challenges, emphasizing both individual action and collective responsibility.
The program also included a “Voices of the Ocean” meet-and-greet at Nausicaá, where participants had the opportunity to pitch their ideas, share experiences, and connect with global ocean experts
A Call for Equal Opportunities in Global Ocean Advocacy
One of the key messages emerging from the summit was the need for greater accessibility and inclusion in international ocean governance. Many participants emphasized the barriers young activists face in attending global conferences, particularly visa restrictions and financial limitations. While one participant joined the discussions remotely due to visa challenges, others expressed hopes that future summits and conferences will ensure youth from all backgrounds have equal opportunities to engage in decision-making.
“I had to join remotely because of visa challenges, but my message is the same: we need more opportunities for youth from all regions to have a seat at the table,” shared a participant from the Global South
UNOC 2025 and Beyond
As the global community prepares for the 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference, the Citizens of the Ocean Summit has laid the groundwork for stronger youth engagement in ocean policymaking. The manifesto developed in Boulogne-sur-Mer will serve as a youth-driven roadmap for ocean action, urging decision-makers to move beyond promises and take concrete steps toward a healthier and more sustainable ocean.
_”This summit has proven that young people are not just the future of ocean governance—we are active leaders in the fight to protect our seas today,”
“For us, the ocean is more than a distant ecosystem—it’s a source of life, a livelihood, and a responsibility,” said one of the young delegates. “This manifesto is our commitment to ensuring that ocean policies reflect the voices of those who care for and depend on the sea.”
Young Ocean Citizens Unite to Shape Global Action Ahead of UN Ocean Conference
