Eighteen experts have been appointed to drive the strategic direction, thematic focus, and outcomes of the Ocean Decade Conference 2027, which will take place April 7–9, 2027, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Among them is Peter M. Haugan, Director of Research at the Institute of Marine Research.
"The Ocean Decade Conference in 2027 is at a timepoint where the progress so far will be assessed, and the plans for the milestone three final years of the Ocean Decade will be made. I would like to contribute to this conference with focus on topics and concrete knowledge-based actions that can make a difference globally. The importance of the ocean for human health, not only through safe and healthy food, but also as a source of medicine and as a positive source of mental health, should be highlighted more. We must mobilize the health sector in the protection of the ocean. We must also use the conference to highlight good experiences with integrated ocean management and sustainable business development so that we can learn from each other and be inspired," says Peter M. Haugan.
The 18 members were appointed based on their expertise and longstanding contributions to advancing marine science in support of the Decade of Ocean Science. Together, they bring a wide range of experience across science policy, ocean innovation, capacity development, engagement of underrepresented groups and regions, and sustainable ocean economy. The committee also reflects sectoral diversity, with members from the UN system, government, academia, philanthropy, civil society, and the private sector.
Haugan is the Policy Director of the Institute of Marine Research and Professor of Oceanography at the Department of Geophysics, University of Bergen. This is not his first role in the UN. He has previously been the Chair of the International Oceanographic Commission (IOC). Haugan was also co-chair of the International Science Council (ISC) expert group for the UN Ocean Conference 2025. In addition to contributing to the Programme Committee, Haugan is currently assisting the IOC with the coordination of events in the UN Ocean Decade.
Haugan brings decades of experience in marine research and international politics and governance. He was also recently elected chair of JPI Oceans. Although his work is mainly international, he also maintains collaborations in Norway, including with the Norwegian Blue Forest Network and One Ocean City Bergen.
