Maritime

The Commission sets up the European Ocean Board and calls for experts to advise on ocean policy

Published

4 weeks ago

February 13, 2026

The European Commission is calling for applications for the High-Level European Ocean Board, a new expert group established under the European Ocean Pact.

The call for applications is open for a period of four weeks, offering professionals and organisations the opportunity to help shape the future of ocean governance.

Selection criteria

The Commission will select up to 25 members, considering the following criteria:

demonstrated experience in areas related to the ocean, the maritime economy, and marine or coastal policies (including fisheries), particularly at the European and/or international level
the skills, experience, and seniority of the proposed representatives
a good command of English, sufficient to actively take part in discussions

The role of the high-level expert group will be to

advise the Commission on and contribute to the effective implementation of the European Ocean Pact
provide opinions on specific matters related to the Ocean Pact and
foster dialogue among members to encourage coherence and synergy between EU policies and private sector initiatives.
In this context, the Board will play a key role in the upcoming ocean observation initiative, supporting ocean knowledge, research and innovation, ocean literacy, and the maritime economy.

The members will be invited for a first meeting in March 2026 and appointed for a term of up to five years. Meetings will take place yearly. While participation does not include remuneration, travel and subsistence expenses will be reimbursed.

Representativeness

The European Ocean Board welcomes representatives from civil society or organisations at the EU level, possessing comprehensive competence and expertise in ocean-related areas. Selected members will ensure geographical representation across EU countries, enriching the group's diversity and insights.

Background

Launched in June 2025, the European Ocean Pact serves as a unifying and coordinated framework for the European Union's ocean-related policies and actions. This strategy aims to better protect the ocean, promote a thriving blue economy, and support the well-being of people living in coastal areas.

The Ocean Pact encompasses a series of initiatives to be developed and implemented. A cornerstone of its governance structure is the establishment of the High-Level European Ocean Board.

Professionals and organizations with a stake in ocean sustainability, maritime industries, or coastal policy are encouraged to apply and help shape the future of EU ocean strategy.

The Board will advise the Commission on the effective roll-out of the European Ocean Pact, providing expert opinions on specific ocean-related challenges, while ensuring policy coherence across EU initiatives and private-sector actions.