Governance
The UNESCO-IOC Ocean Literacy Programme features robust governance to ensure coordinated and effective implementation of Ocean Literacy initiatives worldwide. Two main bodies guide this governance structure, each addressing specific components of the programme to foster comprehensive, inclusive, and sustainable ocean stewardship.
Decade Coordination Office
Hosted by the UNESCO-IOC Project Office in Venice, Italy, the Decade Coordination Office (DCO) "Connecting People and Ocean" oversees the implementation of Ocean Decade Challenge 10, which aims to restore society’s relationship with the ocean. Recognizing the ocean’s essential role in addressing global challenges like climate change, food security, public health, and economic sustainability, the DCO seeks to cultivate global understanding and empathy for marine ecosystems.
Its primary responsibilities include coordinating Decade Actions, amplifying awareness about the connections between ocean health and human well-being, and championing Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusivity (JEDI) principles within ocean science. The DCO works closely with health, well-being, and community stakeholders to integrate Indigenous and Local Knowledge (ILK) and ensure diverse global representation.
Guided by an 11-member Steering Committee composed of multidisciplinary experts, the office coordinates action plans, resource mobilization, stakeholder engagement, and capacity-building initiatives. It also offers strategic guidance in collaboration with the Decade Advisory Board and the Decade Coordination Unit to continuously refine and expand its initiatives.
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IOC Group of Experts on Ocean Literacy
The IOC Group of Experts on Ocean Literacy comprises 36 professionals from 34 countries, reflecting a diverse, multi-stakeholder composition with balanced geographical and gender representation. Nominated by Member States and partners, these experts provide strategic guidance on defining best practices and developing global and regional Ocean Literacy programmes.
The Group of Experts will advise on and contribute to the implementation and coordination of the IOC Ocean Literacy Plan of Action for 2026-2030. This involves improving regional coordination, identifying synergies with diverse partners, and supporting progress assessment. The Group will also align the Plan of Action with the Capacity Development Strategy and assist the IOC Secretariat in developing long-term mechanisms coordinating Ocean Literacy and Capacity Development.
Supported by the IOC Secretariat, the Group of Experts will engage in ocean diplomacy to advance Ocean Literacy and policy, focusing on youth and SIDS, and advise Member States on implementation. Contributions include drafting white papers, leveraging a directory of specialists, and reviewing IOC documents on Ocean Literacy.
