Brazil hosts UNESCO Group of Experts meeting on Ocean Literacy

On 7–8 April, as part of “Ocean Literacy Week,” Brasília hosted, for the first time in Brazil, the in-person meeting of UNESCO’s Ocean Literacy Group of Experts, established in 2023 by the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (UNESCO-IOC).

The group comprises 20 internationally renowned experts representing diverse regions of the world and various fields of expertise. Its mission is to guide the global implementation of Ocean Literacy—recognised as a strategic pillar of the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021–2030).

The group’s responsibilities include developing regional programmes, establishing best practices, supporting network creation, and engaging with academic, governmental, and civil society sectors. It is chaired by Brazilian Ronaldo Christofoletti, a professor at the Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP), and one of the leading international authorities on the subject.

“This meeting in Brazil represents an important milestone for strengthening international cooperation towards an ocean that is better understood, valued, and protected by all societies,” said Prof. Ronaldo Christofoletti.

The meeting preceded the International Blue Curriculum Forum, scheduled for 9–10 April, also in Brasília, attended by government ministers and UNESCO leaders. During the event, group members will share experiences and present draft guidelines aimed at integrating ocean topics into educational systems and public policies on a global scale.

Holding these two consecutive events underscores Brazil’s leadership in promoting Ocean Literacy and its commitment to building more resilient, equitable, and sustainable societies.

Photo credit: Maré de Ciência / Rafael Vargas