France Reaffirms Ocean Conservation Commitment at UN Ocean Conference 2025

During the recently concluded United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3) in Nice, held on June 30, 2025, France reaffirmed its dedication to ocean conservation efforts, emphasizing its pivotal role on the global stage. Permanent Representative Jérôme Bonnafont expressed gratitude for the collaborative effort of participating nations, particularly noting contributions from Costa Rica, Australia, and Cape Verde.

The conference was heralded as a landmark event in ocean advocacy, with notable outcomes that underscore a collective dedication to tackling critical issues linked to water, climate, biodiversity, and food security. Among the achievements, the high seas agreement was ratified by 50 nations, signifying a major step forward in ocean protection efforts—set to be implemented a year following the conference. Furthermore, 96 countries committed to initiate negotiations for a global treaty aimed at curbing plastic pollution, illustrating a unified resolve towards environmental protection.

Additionally, tangible progress was made with the ratification of the World Trade Organization (WTO) agreement that seeks to eliminate subsidies that contribute to overfishing, backed by 103 nations. The conference brought together a record 175 UN member states, including 64 heads of state, making it the largest gathering focused on ocean issues. The strong political declaration issued at the conference underscored a shared urgency for action, although some concerns regarding consensus were noted. Bonnafont highlighted the importance of moving from commitment to action, outlining France’s intent to play a leading role in implementing the agreements forged during the conference. The attendance of approximately 130,000 visitors further illustrates the growing global interest in ocean conservation.