The European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) and the European Committee of the Regions (CoR) have both adopted formal opinions on the European Oceans Pact, calling for a more robust and coordinated governance approach and greater involvement of local and regional stakeholders in shaping the future of ocean policy. Both are EU institutions with a crucial role in advising on policy development from their unique perspectives.

In its opinion, the EESC underlined that the pact must be more than a political statement. It should be a comprehensive framework that supports a sustainable and competitive blue economy, balances environmental, economic and social objectives, and is aligned with the EU Green Deal and Sustainable Development Goals. Recommendations include establishing working groups on ocean matters in all EU institutions, improving maritime governance, and launching an industrial alliance for blue economy value chains. The EESC also called for targeted action to tackle labour shortages in the maritime sector.

The CoR’s opinion warned against a top-down approach. It emphasised the importance of involving local and regional authorities in the design and implementation of the pact. The opinion called for structured dialogues at all governance levels, strengthened Maritime Spatial Planning, and funding to support local adaptation and innovation. The CoR also linked the pact to broader EU goals on the circular economy and food security, reiterating the need for marine ecosystem restoration and climate adaptation funding.

Their inputs, along with that of EBI and other stakeholders, will feed into the final shape of the European Oceans Pact expected in mid-2025.

Find here the Committee of the Regions press release and the EESC press release.