Tuesday, June 9, 2026
Joanne Thompson, Minister of Fisheries, announced Canada will host the 12th Our Ocean Conference (OOC) Spring 2027, in Halifax, Nova Scotia.
Drawing on commitments made in A Force of Nature: Canada’s Strategy to Protect Nature, hosting OOC 2027 supports Canada’s efforts to build a sustainable ocean economy, grow stronger fisheries, protect up to 30 per cent of the marine environment by 2030, and secure Canada’s natural marine legacy for future generations.
With the world’s longest coastline, and three oceans–the Atlantic, Pacific, and Arctic–Canada understands the complexity and urgency of ocean stewardship.
“As a nation bordered by three oceans and home to the longest coastline in the world, Canada’s relationship with oceans runs deep, and we have a duty to protect the oceans and the livelihoods of our coastal communities. Canada looks forward to working with global partners as host of the Our Ocean Conference to make sure shared commitments lead to real results,” said Thompson.
Canada brings to OOC 2027 a distinct approach to ocean stewardship built on Indigenous knowledge that’s been passed down over generations, combined with world-class science and a track record of multilateral collaboration.
As host of OOC 2027, Canada will work with global partners to accelerate commitments, strengthen ocean governance, and translate international ambition into tangible results. Hosting OOC 2027 reflects Canada’s commitment to protecting marine ecosystems, supporting sustainable and inclusive ocean economies, and driving real results for the oceans.
The Our Ocean Conference was launched in 2014 and focuses on voluntary, measurable commitments to protect the ocean.
More than 2,900 commitments have been made globally, valued at approximately CA$228 billion.
“From the small craft harbours in Sambro, to sailors in the Northwest Arm, to commuters navigating the Halifax Harbour on the daily, the Atlantic Ocean is engrained in the fabric of the life of every Haligonian. With that, our ocean sciences and marine innovation sector has demonstrated global leadership. As the first host city in Canada of Our Ocean Conference, Halifax is excited to welcome the world’s most trusted and innovative minds who are working towards more protected and productive oceans,” said Shannon Miedema, MP for Halifax.
The Our Ocean Conference is a leading international platform that brings governments, Indigenous Peoples, industry, civil society, and academia together to drive action-oriented, measurable commitments for ocean conservation and to advance ocean protection and sustainable use.
Featured image: Joanne Thompson, Minister of Fisheries. (Government of Canada)
