| | From our Executive Secretary, Dominic Pattinson: The road to Vigo
As we move closer to the OSPAR Ministerial Meeting in Vigo (Spain) on 26 June, preparations are intensifying across the Commission. This pivotal meeting will bring together Ministers and high-level representatives from across the North-East Atlantic to take stock of our collective progress and chart a clear path toward achieving OSPAR’s North-East Atlantic Environment Strategy (NEAES) 2030.
In Vigo, OSPAR Contracting Parties will reaffirm their shared commitment to a healthy, resilient, and sustainably managed marine environment. It is an opportunity to highlight what we have achieved, but also to acknowledge where more action is needed—particularly in the face of accelerating climate and biodiversity crises.
Before Vigo I will be in Nice for the United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC) where I will be speaking at events ranging from marine pollution from ship scrubbers, nutrients, heavy metals and plastics; to the importance of robust data, and collaboration to support the identification and protection of high seas Marine Protected Areas. We are also hosting our own side event ‘Collaborate to accelerate – the contribution of the Regional Seas Conventions and Action Plans to the ratification and implementation of the BBNJ Agreement’ where we have partnered with the UN Environment Programme Regional Seas Programme, the Government of Belgium, Government of Panama, the Government of Slovenia, the Government of Singapore, , United Nations Division for Ocean Affairs and the Law of the Sea (DOALOS), Global Environment Facility (GEF), North-East Atlantic Fisheries Commission (NEAFC), and BirdLife International. A truly global partnership that highlights the interest protecting the high seas.
UNOC 3 will hopefully highlight the importance of strong regional cooperation and how it can drive meaningful progress toward global ocean goals. It provides an ideal precursor to the OSPAR Ministerial meeting where OSPAR Contracting Parties will be able to not only showcase their achievements but also deliver concrete action to protect the marine environment. By aligning its strategic objectives with the priorities emerging from UNOC, OSPAR can demonstrate the value of regional collaboration both within OSPAR but also with other countries and intergovernmental organisations. It also provides an opportunity for OSPAR Contracting Parties to shape and strengthen the Commission’s voice and visibility on the global stage—highlighting the North-East Atlantic as a model for effective, collaborative ocean stewardship.
Ministerial Mondays will keep you updated on the road to Vigo and beyond—sharing insights, milestones and outcomes as we build momentum for a decisive period for ocean protection.
Why do we hold Ministerial meetings?
Regular Ministerial meetings are a cornerstone of OSPAR’s governance and impact. They provide a vital forum for political leadership, strategic direction, and renewed commitment to our shared goals for the North-East Atlantic. These high-level gatherings ensure accountability, strengthen regional cooperation, and help align national and international priorities. In a time of growing environmental pressures, regular Ministerial engagement is essential to maintaining momentum, securing resources, and translating scientific knowledge into concrete action. They are not just milestones—they are moments to reaffirm ambition and drive meaningful progress. |  | | More information on the Ministerial meeting | | 
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