EU launches OceanEye and calls for global alliance on ocean observation

At  the 2026 European Ocean Days, the President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen,  unveiled OceanEye, the EU’s new flagship initiative to strengthen ocean observation, and called for an International Alliance to reinforce global monitoring efforts.

The EU will provide €50 million from Horizon Europe (2026–2027) to support the initiative, which builds on the Digital Twin of the Ocean and the Copernicus Marine Service. OceanEye aims to boost scientific knowledge, maritime security, and the competitiveness of the blue economy while protecting ocean health.

“OceanEye will unlock the power of ocean knowledge and reinforce a sustainable and resilient global observing system,” President von der Leyen said.

Ocean observation underpins climate forecasting, maritime safety, and Europe’s blue economy, which supports 5 million jobs and generates €250 billion in added value.

Next steps

• Formal adoption of OceanEye later in 2026
• A pledging event for the International Alliance in September
• A fully operational European Ocean Observation System by 2030

OceanEye is a key pillar of the European Ocean Pact, adopted in 2025.

Read the full press release