The vibrant coastal city of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, has been officially named the host of the 2027 Ocean Decade Conference. This landmark event will bring together global leaders, scientists, and activists to drive transformative ocean action and shape the legacy of the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021–2030).
Organized by UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) in partnership with the Brazilian Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MCTI) and the City of Rio de Janeiro, the conference serves as a critical bridge between science, policy, and society.
Brazil: A Global Leader in Marine Stewardship
With over 10,000 kilometers of coastline and the South Atlantic’s only coral reefs, Brazil is a natural choice for this global gathering. The country has already established itself as a pioneer in the “Ocean Decade” movement:
- National Commitment: Brazil was the first country to establish a National Decade Committee.
- Education: It recently became the first nation to mandate ocean literacy in its national school curriculum.
- Diverse Action: Brazil currently leads over 30 “Decade Actions,” ranging from mangrove restoration to tackling microplastic pollution.
Building a Sustainable Legacy
Following the success of the 2024 conference in Barcelona, the 2027 edition will track progress toward the Barcelona Statement and refine strategic priorities for the years leading up to 2030.
“Brazil is—like the Christ the Redeemer statue—with open arms to welcome you,” said Luciana Barbosa de Oliveira Santos, Brazil’s Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation. “Together, we continue turning knowledge into action for sustainable oceans.”
Vidar Helgesen, Executive Secretary of IOC-UNESCO, praised Brazil’s leadership, noting that the nation sets a “global benchmark” for ocean management. As the world looks toward 2027, Rio de Janeiro stands ready to open a new chapter in the journey toward a healthy, resilient, and sustainable ocean future.
