EU Commission launches European Ocean Board under Ocean Pact, seeking experts to advise on EU ocean governance and maritime policy.
The European Commission has opened applications for a new High-Level European Ocean Board, an expert group established under the European Ocean Pact.
The call, open for four weeks, seeks up to 25 members to advise the Commission on ocean governance and the implementation of the Pact. Officials say the move is intended to strengthen coordination across EU ocean policy, though the practical influence of the Board will depend on how its advice is taken forward.
Purpose Of The European Ocean Board
The High-Level European Ocean Board will advise the Commission on the effective implementation of the European Ocean Pact and provide opinions on specific matters linked to the Pact. It is also expected to foster dialogue among members in order to encourage coherence and synergy between EU policies and private-sector initiatives.
In addition, the Board will play a role in shaping an upcoming ocean observation initiative. According to the Commission, this will support ocean knowledge, research and innovation, ocean literacy and the wider maritime economy.
Members will be appointed for a term of up to five years. The first meeting is scheduled for March 2026, with meetings to take place annually. Participation will not be remunerated, although travel and subsistence expenses will be reimbursed.
Selection Criteria and Composition
The Commission will select up to 25 members based on specific criteria. Applicants must demonstrate experience in areas related to the ocean, the maritime economy, and marine or coastal policies, including fisheries, particularly at European or international level.
The skills, experience and seniority of proposed representatives will be assessed, alongside their ability to actively participate in discussions in English.
The Commission has stated that the Board will include representatives from civil society and EU-level organisations with comprehensive expertise in ocean-related matters. Selected members are expected to reflect geographical representation across EU countries.
Background to the Ocean Pact
The European Ocean Pact was launched in June 2025 as a framework intended to coordinate and align the European Union’s ocean-related policies and actions. The strategy aims to strengthen ocean protection, support a competitive blue economy and promote the well-being of coastal communities.
A central element of the Pact’s governance structure is the creation of the High-Level European Ocean Board, designed to provide strategic guidance and expert input as the Pact’s initiatives are developed and implemented.
Applications Now Open
Professionals and organisations with interests in ocean sustainability, maritime industries or coastal policy are being encouraged to apply within the four-week application window.
The Commission says the Board will help shape the future of EU ocean strategy. Whether it becomes a decisive advisory body or another consultative forum will depend on the weight given to its recommendations once the European Ocean Pact moves from strategy to enforcement.