On Monday 12 January, the European Commission launched a call for evidence with a view to drafting European Ocean Act, scheduled for adoption in 2026. This consultation aims to gather the views of a wide range of stakeholders, experts and citizens (see EUROPE 13654/3).
Evidence can be submitted until 9 February. The initiative is part of the ‘European Ocean Pact’, of which the ‘Ocean Act’ is one of the main components.
The aim is to strengthen the coherence and effectiveness of maritime governance within the European Union, by making this Act a single point of reference for all the economic, climate, environmental and social objectives linked to the protection and sustainable use of ocean resources and services.
The future act will be based in particular on the revision of the Maritime Spatial Planning Directive to ensure more coherent use of the maritime space and ocean resources. It will also aim to structure the governance of the European Ocean Observation System, simplify reporting obligations and reduce the administrative burden of EU ocean policies.
An open public consultation will be published in spring 2026. The legislative proposal is expected at the end of 2026, in line with the Commission’s work programme.
Details: https://aeur.eu/f/k7u (Original version in French by Lionel Changeur)