This fall, a program committee was formed, consisting of representatives from, among others, the Institute of Marine Research and the University of Bergen. The theme for 2026 has now been finalized.
The program committee is chaired by Jane Jünger, who is a senior advisor on green regional transition at the University of Bergen, and consists of:
- Matt Duke, CEO of Grieg Maritime Group
- Øyvind Fiksen, professor of biological oceanography, University of Bergen (UiB)
- Martha-Gurine Landeråen Hess, Commander/Head of the Naval War College
- Peter Haugan, Director of Research, Institute of Marine Research
- Haakon Steinar Vatle, director of the Statsraad Lehmkuhl Tall Ship Foundation and expedition leader for the One Ocean Expedition
A Safe and Predictable Ocean
The theme “A Safe and Predictable Ocean” aligns with the goals of the UN Decade of Ocean Science, whose overarching vision is “The Science We Need for the Ocean We Want.”
This articulates the overarching goal of the decade: to bring together researchers, government agencies, the business sector, civil society, and the general public to build a shared knowledge base that will enable the sustainable management of the world’s oceans by 2030.
The main theme of the One Ocean Summit is intended to serve as a unifying thread throughout One Ocean Week and as a source of inspiration for other events. The goal is to make the themes of One Ocean Week recognizable to the rest of the world.
The Seven Goals of the UN Decade of Ocean Science
This year’s theme is also linked to the seven sub-goals for the Year of Ocean Research, which were created to foster an engaging and inspiring understanding of the ocean that society can understand, value, and protect.
1. A clean ocean
Where sources of pollution have been identified, reduced, and eliminated.
2. A healthy and resilient ocean
Where marine ecosystems are mapped, protected, restored, and managed sustainably.
3. A productive ocean
That ensures a sustainable supply of food, energy, and other resources.
4. A Predictable Ocean
Where societies understand and can respond to the state of the ocean, weather, and climate change.
5. A Safe Sea
Where lives and property are protected from marine hazards.
6. An Accessible Ocean
Where data, information, technology, and innovation are open and accessible to everyone.
7. An inspiring and engaging ocean
Where society understands and values the ocean in relation to human well-being and sustainable development.
If you are an organizer and have any questions, please contact program coordinator Sølvi Ones. You can find her contact information here.
