Pacific leaders are intensifying their call for greater investment, stronger political commitment, and recognition of traditional knowledge to safeguard the ocean futures of their nations. The recent United Nations’ Ocean Conference (UNOC) held in Nice, France, from June 9 to 13, 2025, represented a pivotal moment for Pacific leaders advocating for a cohesive international ocean governance structure.
Dr. Filimon Manoni, the Pacific Islands Forum’s Ocean Commissioner, highlighted that the Pacific region presented a unified message during the conference. He expressed pride in the way Pacific leaders articulated their urgent challenges concerning ocean health, emphasizing the significance of taking proactive measures not just for current generations but for future ones. Dr. Manoni pointed out that regional countries are not waiting for external leadership; instead, they are spearheading homegrown solutions aimed at sustainable ocean management, featuring initiatives like the Cook Islands’ Marae Moana multi-use marine park and Palau’s Marine Sanctuary.
Dr. Manoni urged global partners to support these initiatives, noting the Pacific’s crucial role in the world’s tuna supply, which accounts for 50 to 60 percent of the global market. He emphasized that the benefits gained from the Pacific’s ocean stewardship extend beyond its borders, impacting global food security and nutrition.
The conference also proved to be a platform for urgent calls for a legally binding global plastics treaty and measures to combat illegal fishing, reflecting regional aspirations to meet Sustainable Development Goal 14 (SDG14) focused on ocean sustainability. Dr. Manoni expressed hope that by the next UNOC in 2028, significant progress could be made, urging for continuous financial support and collaborative efforts to evolve actionable strategies.
Given these developments, the collaborative spirit of Pacific nations shines as a beacon of hope for future ocean governance, advocating for sustainable solutions that can inspire not just regional, but global change. The ongoing dialogue and consensus-building among these nations highlight their commitment to being proactive custodians of marine resources, fostering optimism for a thriving ocean and coastal communities.
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