The need to act together The Commission has launched OceanEye, a European ocean observation initiative to improve our understanding and management of the ocean and marine activities. As part of this initiative, President von der Leyen announced the creation of the International Alliance for Global Ocean Observing System. This Alliance will bring together EU countries and international partners to strengthen global ocean observation, secure funding and collaborate more. 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. We need proper ocean observation to react effectively to planetary crises or ensure a competitive economy in the long term. The International Alliance for the Global Ocean Observing System What is the Global Ocean Observing System? The Global Ocean Observing System (GOOS), coordinated by the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of UNESCO, provides the global infrastructure for ocean observation, delivering open and freely accessible ocean data. Despite it vital role GOOS remains critically underfunded. The Commission and the IOC-UNESCO therefore launched an International Alliance to mobilise greater investment and strengthen coordination.The Global Ocean Observing System in numbers 64 countries contribute90% of global observations are funded by just 9 countries+ 120 000 ocean observations per day Pledging for the International Alliance for the Global Ocean Observing System A pledging event to mobilise contributions for the GOOS will be organised in September 2026. The European Commission called on EU countries, non EU-countries and partners such as non-profit organisations and private organisations to join the International Alliance to boost support for ocean observation, with stable long-term funding.The Commission will contribute €62 million through the Horizon Europe Programme. Why is ocean observation important? PlayPauseThe ocean covers 70% of the earth’s surface, yet only 5% of the ocean has been explored and mapped. The more information we have about the ocean, the better we can protect it. Data from ocean observation is essential for: safety and security of operations at seaa competitive blue economyaccurate weather forecastsreliable climate projectionsocean restoration and protectionstronger coastal resilience Supporting ocean technology and innovation OceanEye strengthens the EU’s international leadership efforts to establish a sustained global ocean observing system. The initiative supports investment, innovation and collaboration to strengthen the effectiveness and resilience of global ocean observation. The initiative also includes education, culture and outreach activities to bring the ocean and ocean observation closer to citizens. Find out more about OceanEye Background In June 2025, the European Commission adopted the European Ocean Pact. One of its key priorities is to advance ocean research, knowledge, skills and innovation. OceanEye is an essential part of this effort. While the EU and its countries have already made substantial investments in ocean observation, there is scope to strengthen and expand these efforts further. Related links Protecting the ocean togetherBlue economy This page was last updated on 3 June 2026
The Commission has launched OceanEye, a European ocean observation initiative to improve our understanding and management of the ocean and marine activities. As part of this initiative, President von der Leyen announced the creation of the International Alliance for Global Ocean Observing System. This Alliance will bring together EU countries and international partners to strengthen global ocean observation, secure funding and collaborate more. 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. We need proper ocean observation to react effectively to planetary crises or ensure a competitive economy in the long term.
