OceanEye: Reinforcing ocean observation and protection

The ocean is essential to life on this planet. And yet, it is under more pressure than ever, from climate change to pollution to illegal fishing. The more information we have about the ocean, the better we can safeguard its vast natural heritage and protect the ocean and ourselves.

At the 2026 European Ocean Days, the President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen announced the launch of a European ocean monitoring and observation initiative called OceanEye, which will lay the foundation for smarter and more effective ocean observation. At the same time, she called for an international alliance to unite EU countries and international partners in efforts to secure funding and provide a framework for coordinated action and cooperation. The EU will contribute €50 million from Horizon Europe to the international alliance for 2026-2027.

Ocean observation is key, as it allows us to

• collect data needed to understand the state of the ocean
• predict and mitigate the impacts of climate change
• enhance the competitiveness of our economic activities at sea
• contribute to maritime security.

In this way, OceanEye will support EU ocean technology and innovation, and will position the EU at the forefront of international efforts to deliver a sustained global ocean observing system. It is an essential element of the European Ocean Pact and will also include educational, cultural and outreach dimensions to bring the ocean and ocean observation closer to citizens.

The OceanEye initiative will be formally presented by the Commission later in 2026, whilst a pledging event for the international alliance will be organised in September. With this, the EU is on course to meet the objective of having a fully operational European ocean observation system by 2030.

For more information

Press release - President von der Leyen launches OceanEye and calls for an international alliance to reinforce global ocean observation and protection

Speech of President von der Leyen at the European Ocean Days 

Protecting the ocean together