Seychelles represented at the 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3) |10 June 2025

Members of the Seychelles delegation in Nice

Seychelles represented at the 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3)

Blue Economy at the forefront

The 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3), co-hosted by France and Costa Rica, officially opened yesterday in Nice, France, under the central theme: ‘Accelerating action and mobilising all actors to conserve and sustainably use the ocean’. 

Building on the outcomes of the previous conferences in 2017 (New York) and 2022 (Lisbon), UNOC3 aims to catalyze global momentum toward achieving Sustainable Development Goal 14 (Life Below Water) by enhancing partnerships, increasing investment, and strengthening science-based policy action across all levels of governance.

The delegation is led by Flavien Joubert, Minister for Agriculture, Climate Change and Environment. The delegation comprises representatives from the Department of Blue Economy, the Seychelles Ports Authority, the Department of Fisheries, and the Department of Environment. It also includes technical capacity drawn from key national institutions engaged in marine conservation, sustainable development, and ocean governance. The national dossier on Seychelles’ participation in UNOC3 is coordinated and spearheaded by the Department of Blue Economy, where it is institutionally anchored. This inclusive, multi-agency representation underscores Seychelles’ integrated approach to the Blue Economy, emphasising the country’s determination to link ocean conservation with economic opportunity and social prosperity.

During the course of the conference, UNOC3 will bring together global leaders in a series of high-level plenaries and Action Panels focused on critical pillars of the Blue Economy. These include the sustainable economic development of marine sectors, ocean finance, marine biodiversity conservation, high seas governance, and enhancing the resilience of small island developing states (Sids). One of the key expected outcomes is the adoption of the Nice Ocean Action Plan – an intergovernmental declaration that will consolidate voluntary commitments and chart a collective path toward a sustainable ocean economy by 2030.

At UNOC3, Seychelles will be reaffirming its leadership and commitment to advancing a sustainable ocean agenda through a number of strategic priorities. Foremost among these is the call for the swift ratification of the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Treaty, a landmark international agreement aimed at protecting marine biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction. Seychelles, as the first African nation to ratify the BBNJ Treaty, continues to champion its global adoption as a critical instrument for equitable and science-based high seas governance. In a historic moment during the opening plenary yesterday, French President Emmanuel Macron announced, “We will reach the 60th ratification of the BBNJ Agreement today,” marking the threshold required for the treaty’s entry into force.

In addition, Seychelles will emphasise the importance of sensitisation and public awareness around the Blue Economy, highlighting that widespread understanding of how the sustainable development of marine resources can generate inclusive socio-economic benefits while maintaining environmental integrity is fundamental to long-term success.

The delegation will also underscore the need for strengthened international partnerships and targeted resource mobilisation, including greater investment in Blue Economy innovation for Sids.

Moreover, Seychelles will call for the expansion of ocean-related research beyond the traditional scientific domains, promoting the integration of socio-economic dimensions and community-driven insights. This comprehensive approach ensures that the Blue Economy model remains environmentally sound, economically viable, and socially inclusive, anchoring ocean development in sustainability and equity.

As the conference unfolds, Seychelles remains steadfast in its belief that the ocean is not only a natural heritage but also an engine for inclusive growth and sustainable development. Through its active engagement at UNOC3, the country reiterates its commitment to global ocean governance, strategic partnerships, and a Blue Economy that places people and planet at the centre of decision-making.

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