(NEWS) WMU at the UN Ocean Conference 2025

June

2025

WMU at the UN Ocean Conference 2025

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From 9 to 13 June, the World Maritime University (WMU) actively participated in the 2025 United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC) in Nice, France. Co-hosted by France and Costa Rica, the high-level gathering convened global leaders under the theme “Accelerating action and mobilizing all actors to conserve and sustainably use the ocean.”

The WMU delegation was led by President Maximo Q. Mejia, Jr., who emphasized the University’s commitment to supporting the International Maritime Organization and Member States through maritime and ocean education, research, and capacity development. “WMU is committed to ocean conservation and to taking action that ensures we respect and preserve the ocean—our planet’s lifeblood—which provides us with vital living and non-living resources, and connects us all and sustains the global economy through shipping. We must remain steadfast in our collective efforts to steward this vital resource wisely, as the future of humanity and all life on Earth depends on it,” said President Mejia.

As an official UNOC supporter, the WMU–Sasakawa Global Ocean Institute (WMU-GOI) co-hosted three Side Events on 13 June in the Conference’s Blue and Green Zones:

Accelerating Sustainability: Transforming Mediterranean and Black Sea Fisheries and Aquaculture Organized by the Food and Agriculture Organization General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean (FAO GFCM), the high-level panel was moderated by Professor Ronán Long, Director of the WMU-GOI. The event highlighted regional cooperation, launched the GFCM Voluntary Ocean Commitment, and mobilized sustainability pledges from key stakeholders.

Charting the Future: BBNJ and Ocean Governance Solutions for the Triple Planetary Crisis
Organized by the WMU-GOI, this roundtable explored solutions to the triple planetary crisis, including biodiversity protection, legal reforms, and technology for marine data sharing. WMU speakers included Dr Zhen Sun and Dr Tafsir Matin Johansson with representatives from the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), Sargasso Sea Commission, and Institute of Marine Affairs of Trinidad and Tobago.

Dive into Action: Uniting Ocean Ambassadors for a Sustainable Future
Co-organized with Positive Vibes Only (PVO) Expeditions and OECS, the WMU-GOI team contributed to a creative public workshop at “La Baleine” that blended ocean literacy and engagement through art, music, virtual reality, and interactive activities, encouraging multi-generational participation.

Throughout the week, WMU-GOI experts also contributed to several partner events. Professor Ronán Long spoke at sessions hosted by the MarViva Foundation on Particularly Sensitive Sea Areas, the United Nations Division for Ocean Affairs and the Law of the Sea (UN DOALOS) and the United Nations Nippon Foundation Fellowship (UNNF) on capacity development, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)/University of Gothenburg on marine restoration, and the United Nations Mediterranean Shipping Company (UN MSC) Foundation on ocean literacy in the maritime sector. Dr Tafsir Matin Johansson participated as a speaker in the Lloyd’s Register Foundation panel on engineering solutions for a sustainable ocean economy, and Dr Aspasia Pastra contributed as a speaker to The Economist – World Ocean Initiative event on technological innovation for ocean health.

The week-long engagement reflected WMU’s deep commitment to advancing Sustainable Development Goal 14 (Life Below Water) and supporting global ocean governance through education, research, and multi stakeholder partnerships.

The conference outcome document recognized the vital role of maritime transport, infrastructure, and routes in global trade, food and energy security, and the urgent need to cut Greenhouse Gas Emissions in the sector.

For more information, photos, and updates, visit the Future Ocean Programme and BBNJ Clinic Programme websites.

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About the 2025 United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC)

The 2025 UNOC, co-hosted by France and Costa Rica, brings together governments, the UN, civil society, academia, the private sector, and Indigenous Peoples to promote ocean solutions and accelerate implementation of Sustainable Development Goal 14.

About the Future Ocean Programme

Funded by The Nippon Foundation, the Future Ocean Programme explores how law, political science, and public policy can transform humanity’s relationship with the ocean to address biodiversity loss, climate change, and pollution.

About the BBNJ Clinic Programme

Jointly supported by Ireland and WMU-GOI, the BBNJ Clinic assists Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and Least Developed Countries (LDCs) in ratifying and implementing the BBNJ Agreement. The Clinic offers legal and policy support to ensure inclusive participation in ocean governance.

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Related Documents

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Dissertation title

Maritime Governance: Contextual Factors affecting Implementation of IMO Instruments

My decision to enroll in the doctoral program at WMU was heavily influencedby my prior experience as a Master's student at the institution. Initiallyintroduced to me as a preeminent global institution for maritime education,WMU's stellar reputation was further substantiated by the exceptional qualityof education I received during my Master’s studies. This experience became acompelling factor in my determination to return to WMU as a doctoral student.Recognizing the synergies between my research aspirations and the institutionalofferings at WMU, I concluded that continuing my educational journey at thisesteemed institution was not only beneficial but also aligned perfectly with myacademic and professional goals.

My research explored thetheoretical foundations of governance, placing a particular emphasis onmaritime governance. Going beyond mere theoretical frameworks, the studyconducted a comprehensive examination of a crucial aspect within maritimegovernance—specifically, the implementation of International MaritimeOrganization (IMO) instruments, exploring the contextual factors that affectthe implementation process. Applying the grounded theory methodology, theresearch aimed to understand these theoretical underpinnings, as well as firmlyanchor insights in the practical context of maritime governance; unveiling theintricacies and challenges associated with the effective implementation of IMOinstruments in the maritime domain. The selection of this topic was motivatedby a personal interest that was cultivated during my Master’s studies inmaritime law and policy. Furthermore, it was driven by the recognition of ascarcity of scientific research on this specific topic. This gap in theexisting body of knowledge served as a catalyst for my exploration,underscoring the significance of contributing valuable insights to an area ofmaritime governance that has been relatively underrepresented in scholarlyresearch.

Undoubtedly, a highlight of myeducational journey at WMU was the opportunity to forge connections withinfluential change-makers and thought leaders hailing from every corner of theglobe. This invaluable chance to engage with individuals on an internationalscale has not only enabled me to expand my global network but has also servedas a conduit for immersing myself in the rich tapestry of diverse cultures.Through these global interactions, I've gained a profound understanding ofdifferent perspectives, traditions, and approaches, contributing significantlyto my personal and academic growth. This experience goes beyond mere networkingand has also played a pivotal role in fostering stronger connections within theCaribbean region from which I hail.

Embarking on my professional path,my foremost aim is to establish myself as an authority in the field of maritimegovernance. I aspire to leave a significant and enduring mark on the globalmaritime landscape. Beyond the academic sphere, my drive is fuelled by apassionate interest in pursuing diverse opportunities within the maritimedomain and the broader educational sector and contributing significantly topositive transformations in the global maritime sector.

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Maritime Governance: Contextual Factors affecting Implementation of IMO Instruments

The Transition to low and near zero carbon emission ports: Extent and Determinants

The Development of a Systematic, Holistic and Transdisciplinary Energy Management Framework to Promote Environmentally Sustainable Shipyards

When I made the decision to embark on the journey of pursuing both my MScand PhD degrees, the World Maritime University (WMU) beckoned me for severalcompelling reasons. Foremost among these was WMU's sterling reputation as aworld-class institution within the maritime sphere, a factor that wieldedsignificant influence over my choice. Given my extensive background as a seniorprofessional in the maritime operational field, having held the role of acaptain, I was in search of an academic environment that could serve as a nexusfor both enriching my knowledge and providing a platform for the disseminationof my wealth of industry experience.

WMU's unwavering commitment tomaritime education, coupled with its resolute emphasis on bridging the realmsof academia and industry, deeply resonated with me. It became evident that WMUwas the perfect crucible for my transformation from a career entrenched inmaritime operations to one flourishing within academia. The University'sstoried tradition of nurturing and producing experts and leaders within themaritime sector further solidified its standing as the ideal choice for myeducational pursuits.Furthermore, WMU's distinctive interdisciplinary approachto maritime studies served as an irresistible attraction.

My research focus during my tenureat WMU was centered on the pivotal subject of achieving net-zero emissions inthe maritime sector, encompassing both offshore and onshore infrastructures,including ports and shipyards. This particular research avenue held greatappeal for me due to its unique capacity to amalgamate my extensive practicalexperience as a captain within the maritime operational field with the rigorousacademic environment provided by WMU. The maritime industry is inherentlydynamic, constantly undergoing transformative changes, and I was deeplyconvinced that my research endeavors could significantly contribute toenhancing sustainability within this vital sector. The prospect of influencingpositive change by addressing contemporary challenges and emerging trends inthe maritime industry, all closely aligned with my professional background,served as a compelling motivation for my choice of research focus.

One of the most memorable aspectsof my WMU experience has undoubtedly been the University's vibrant andinclusive interdisciplinary environment. Engaging with both faculty members andfellow students hailing from diverse backgrounds and nationalities has been anincredibly enriching facet of my academic journey. This inclusive atmospherehas offered me a unique opportunity to gain fresh insights and perspectivesthat would have remained undiscovered within the confines of a purely industry-focusedsetting. The collaborative exchange of ideas across various maritimedisciplines has proven to be invaluable, expanding my horizons and enriching myeducational experience. Additionally, the regular involvement in thoughtfuldiscussions, seminars, and workshops focused on globally relevant maritimetopics has served as a consistent source of inspiration throughout my time atWMU. The University’s unwavering dedication to cultivating a global network ofmaritime experts has allowed me to establish meaningful connections withprofessionals and scholars from across the world. These connections have notonly broadened my academic horizons but have also added a global dimension tomy educational journey, enhancing its depth and significance.

Upon graduation, I was awarded aprestigious research fellowship in sustainability, energy, and the pursuit ofnet-zero emissions within the maritime industry at the esteemed University ofSouthampton in the United Kingdom. This exciting opportunity marks the nextphase of my academic and maritime journey. I remain passionately committed tocontinuing my exploration of academia and the maritime sector, building uponthe invaluable knowledge and experience I acquired during my time at WMU. Myprimary objective is to contribute significantly to the advancement of thezero-emission maritime industry, a pivotal and transformative sector within ourglobal community.

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The Development of a Systematic, Holistic and Transdisciplinary Energy Management Framework to Promote Environmentally Sustainable Shipyards