The consultation aims to collect views from all stakeholders - international organisations, state actors, NGOs, business, the research community, academia and civil society - on what the EU could do to achieve better international governance of oceans and seas, as a way of promoting sustainable blue growth. The consultation is also available in an on-line survey format (English only). The public consultation will run until 15th September 2015.

The consultation will feed into  the international discussion on how to improve ocean governance, addressing challenges related to increased use of marine resources, including in the 60 per cent of the oceans that are beyond national jurisdiction.

The EU plays a prominent role in this discussion. The blue economy already produces 5% of its GDP and provides nearly 5 million jobs. Moreover, the EU is a global frontrunner in developing sustainable ocean based economies through its robust set of environmental rules, integrated maritime policy, reformed Common Fisheries Policy and its global fight against illegal fishing.

More information

Consultation on International Ocean Governance