On Tuesday, June 10, 2025, the UN Ocean Conference 2025 in Nice, France, will host a key side event titled “Mobilizing Youth and ECOPs: Showcasing Initiatives for Ocean Action.” This session, co-organized by Peace Boat and the Permanent Mission of Kiribati, will highlight innovative initiatives led by youth and efforts to build coalitions that empower early-career ocean professionals (ECOPs) around the world.
Event Overview
Taking place in the Blue Zone at Port Lympia (Room 1) from 12:15 to 13:30 CEST, this high-level event will showcase inspiring programs aimed at mobilizing youth for ocean action through collaboration among various stakeholders. Attendees will include representatives from Small Island Developing States (SIDS) youth initiatives in partnership with Kiribati, AOSIS, Chile, and a wide range of NGOs.
A key highlight of the event will be the launch of the Coalition of Emerging Ocean Leaders (CEOL), a transformative, youth-led initiative that brings together early-career professionals from science, policy, innovation, and civil society. Backed by the Greek and Dominican Republic governments, CEOL’s mission is to enhance inclusive ocean governance by empowering youth and fostering policy engagement, particularly among young leaders from marginalized and frontline communities addressing ocean, biodiversity, and climate challenges.
What to Anticipate
The event will include:
- Opening keynotes featuring prominent leaders, including Kiribati’s Minister for Fisheries and Ocean Resources, H.E. Ambassador Ilana Seid (Palau), Chile’s Minister of Environment Maisa Rojas, Dr. Dionysia-Theodora Avgerinopoulou (Greek Prime Minister’s Special Envoy for the Ocean), and Pascal Lamy, former WTO Director-General.
- The launch of CEOL, with announcements detailing the coalition’s objectives and voluntary ocean commitments by youth leaders such as Guillaume Lheureux, Peter Teye Busumprah, and Jessica Newfield.
- Two moderated panels that will delve into youth involvement in ocean governance and networks, led by Pedro Dantas (CEOL) and Rebecca Daniel, featuring insights from global youth organizations and ocean experts.
- Closing reflections from Peace Boat founder Yoshioka Tatsuya and Jonathan Delance from the Dominican Republic Ministry of Environment.
Importance of the Event
Youth and early-career ocean professionals play a vital role in shaping the future of ocean governance and sustainable blue economies. This event not only showcases successful models of intergenerational collaboration but also emphasizes pathways for youth-driven innovation, equity, and resilience in addressing global ocean issues.
Moderators
- Emilie McGlone (Peace Boat US), who has extensive experience in youth engagement and global ocean advocacy.
- Electra Delavogia (CEOL), a prominent voice for emerging ocean leaders fostering change through collective efforts.
Join Us
This event is a valuable opportunity for policymakers, young leaders, scientists, and ocean advocates to connect, learn, and commit to enhancing youth-driven ocean action globally.
Note: Access to the Blue Zone requires registration for the UN Ocean Conference.
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