Nice, France – The Mediterranean night shimmered with 2,025 drones dancing above the Promenade des Anglais, forming glowing whales, jellyfish, and coral reefs in a luminous ballet. This record-setting display heralded the opening of the third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3), co-hosted by France and Costa Rica, running from June 9 to 13.
The conference convenes over 60 world leaders, 4,000 government officials, and 6,000 civil society participants, aiming to address what the UN deems a “global emergency” affecting the world’s oceans. Key goals include accelerating action to sustainably use and protect ocean resources, securing $100 billion in commitments, and promoting the ratification of the 2023 high seas biodiversity treaty.
Notably absent are official delegations from the United States, China, and Russia. Since President Trump’s 2025 inauguration, the U.S. has withdrawn from the Paris Agreement and the UN’s Loss and Damage Fund, signalling a retreat from international climate commitments. This absence underscores a shift in global leadership on ocean conservation.
In contrast, the United Kingdom has taken a proactive stance. UK MPs have called for a ban on bottom trawling in marine protected areas, and the government is actively involved in negotiating the conference’s political declaration. France and the UK are collaborating on initiatives like a treaty on plastic pollution and establishing green shipping corridors.
Despite France’s role as co-host, President Emmanuel Macron faces criticism over domestic marine conservation efforts. Environmental groups highlight that bottom trawling remains permitted in 98% of France’s marine protected areas, challenging the nation’s credibility in leading ocean protection.
As the conference unfolds, the world watches to see if these gatherings will yield tangible actions or remain symbolic gestures. 1The luminous drone display serves as a beacon of hope, urging nations to unite in safeguarding our oceans for future generations.
