The UN Ocean Conference: Repositioning the oceans from margins to global priority

CWA # 1928

State of Global Politics 2025

The UN Ocean Conference: Repositioning the oceans from margins to global priority

The World This Week #338, Vol 7, No 52, 31 December 2025

Lekshmi MK
31 December 2025

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What happened?
On 09 June, the third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC 3) commenced in Nice, France, which was co-hosted with Costa Rica. Over 19 countries joined the High Seas Treaty during the event. Over 30 nations formally supported a moratorium on deep-sea mining. French President Emmanuel Macron called deep-sea mining “madness” and pushed for a global moratorium. UN Secretary-General António Guterres urged a shift from "plunder to protection” while Prince William stressed the need to act now. The conference ended with the Nice Ocean Action Plan, which focuses on stronger marine protection, more funding, and faster ratification of global ocean agreements.

What is the background?
First, a brief note on ocean conferences and the High Seas Treaty. The first UN Ocean Conference (2017, New York) focused on advancing SDG 14 and marine pollution control, while the second (2022, Lisbon) emphasized sustainable ocean economies and plastic pollution. However, both lacked binding commitments.

The High Seas Treaty, adopted in 2023 under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, addresses marine biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction (BBNJ). It introduces provisions for marine protected areas, environmental impact assessments, and fair access to marine resources. The treaty represents a step toward formalizing governance mechanisms for ocean spaces beyond national control.

Second, the soaring focus on deep sea-mining. Deep-sea mining has come under increased global scrutiny due to concerns over irreversible ecological impacts and the absence of comprehensive regulation. With increasing demand for rare earth minerals, the interest of mining firms has also grown. However, many countries and environmental groups stress the need for caution. This reflected mounting international debate over balancing resource extraction with long-term ocean conservation and legal safeguards.

Third, France’s role in ocean governance. France holds a key position in ocean governance, with overseas territories across all major oceans and the world’s second-largest Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). It has been active in promoting marine biodiversity protection, sustainable ocean use, and global climate commitments. France supports the High Seas Treaty and has called for a moratorium on deep-sea mining.

What does it mean?
First, the implications of the conference on deep-sea mining and ocean governance. Deep-sea mining raises serious risks for ocean ecosystems, yet interest is growing due to demand for rare minerals. There is a chance now to rethink ocean governance by focusing on global cooperation, stronger science-based rules, and long-term environmental monitoring. Indigenous knowledge and ocean data sharing is expected toplay a bigger role. Nevertheless, current laws are unclear, and the International Seabed Authority lacks strict rules. Many countries still prioritize profit over protection. If these gaps aren’t addressed, deep-sea mining could go ahead without proper safeguards, causing damage we may not be able to reverse.

Second, France’s maritime ambitions and climate leadership. France is actively using ocean governance as a tool of foreign diplomacy to expand its global influence. It positions itself as a natural leader on marine issues. Hosting UNOC 3, leading support for the High Seas Treaty, and calling for a deep-sea mining moratorium are part of its effort to gain soft power in global environmental negotiations. By championing ocean protection, France strengthens its ties with coastal and island nations, enhances its climate credentials, and builds moral leadership that supports its broader geopolitical and diplomatic interests on the international stage.

Third, the US's reluctance in joining multilateral treaties on oceans. The US not joining major ocean treaties like UNCLOS and the High Seas Treaty creates a big gap in global ocean efforts. As a powerful country with strong science and navy, its full support is important. When the US stays out, it becomes harder for the world to act together. Many countries still look to the US for leadership. The US should be more active, not just show up at meetings, but also sign and follow global rules. This would build trust and make ocean protection efforts stronger worldwide.

About the author
Lekshmi MK is a Postgraduate student at Madras Christian College, Chennai.

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