Over the past year, Mercator Ocean International has advanced its transformation into an intergovernmental organization (IGO) for digital Ocean systems and services. At the UN Ocean Conference in Nice (June 2025), 12 countries endorsed a declaration of continued commitment, led by France and Norway as the first signatories of its international Convention. The Convention is now open for signature by all Copernicus participating States, marking a key step toward the IGO’s formal establishment.
Since 6 January 2026, Norway has become the first IGO Member State, following the ratification of the Convention by its Parliament.
In December 2025, representatives from the European Commission and Copernicus eligible States met in Brussels for two days of strategic discussions. These exchanges underscored that the IGO is a collaborative European initiative, designed to leverage national expertise, connect hundreds of competence centers across Europe, and align with the Copernicus Marine service, the EU Digital Twin Ocean, and the European Ocean Pact.
Participants also focused on preparing the IGO for action in 2026, examining how signatory States will work together to establish its foundations through the first Board of Signatories, a key opportunity to shape its governance and define the initial Programme of Activities in alignment with national priorities.
Mauro Facchini, DG DEFIS, European Commission:
“Member States will have a unique opportunity to participate in the governance of the organization delivering key European Ocean services, including the Copernicus Marine service and the EU Digital Twin Ocean. Building on Europe’s existing network of experts and institutes, the intergovernmental organization will strengthen scientific and technical collaboration and provide strategic direction for the development and delivery of digital Ocean services.”
Pierre Bahurel, Director General, Mercator Ocean International:
“In 2026, we will continue working together to enable new signatures of the Convention and launch the first Board of Signatories, which is a decisive step toward the IGO’s entry into force. Early engagement will allow States to help shape IGO priorities and contribute to decisions that reflect their national interests.”