The European Commission has launched a public consultation to shape the European Ocean Act, a key legislative initiative under the EU’s ocean policy framework, expected to be adopted in 2026.
According to an announcement published on Thursday, the proposed law aims to establish a unified framework to strengthen governance across the EU’s marine areas, bringing together economic, climate, environmental and social objectives linked to the protection and sustainable use of ocean resources.
The consultation will remain open until 16 July 2026 and is addressed to stakeholders, public authorities, experts, citizens and coastal communities. Participants are invited to submit their views through a structured questionnaire, with the Commission aiming to ensure that the final legislative proposal reflects the needs of those directly affected.
The European Ocean Act is expected to support six key priorities of the EU Ocean Pact, including ocean health, a sustainable blue economy, support for coastal communities, research and knowledge, maritime security and defence, and international ocean governance.
The Commission also plans to simplify existing governance structures by reducing administrative burdens and harmonising rules, creating a single framework for EU ocean-related objectives.
In addition, the legislation will modernise maritime spatial planning by enhancing cooperation across sectors and member states. It will also establish a legal basis for the OceanEye initiative, designed to monitor oceans at a European level.
The proposal is set to align with the revision of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive, with the aim of improving policy coherence and better integrating environmental goals into maritime spatial planning.
The Commission intends to present the legislative proposal by the end of 2026, in line with its work programme. During the preparation phase, efforts will also focus on strengthening coordination between existing EU directives on maritime spatial planning and marine strategy to ensure a more coherent ocean policy.
Source: CNA