In 2008, the United Nations General Assembly decided that, as from 2009, 8 June would be designated by the United Nations as “World Oceans Day” (resolution 63/111, paragraph 171). Many countries have celebrated World Oceans Day following the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development, which was held in Rio de Janerio in 1992.

The oceans are essential to food security and the health and survival of all life, power our climate and are a critical part of the biosphere. The official designation of World Oceans Day is an opportunity to raise global awareness of the current challenges faced by the international community in connection with the oceans.

The theme of the inaugural observance of the World Oceans Day by the United Nations in 2009 is “Our Oceans, Our Responsibility”. The Division for Ocean Affairs and the Law of the Sea, in cooperation with the Department of Public Information, is organizing a number of events and activities at United Nations Headquarters in New York on 8 June 2009. Further details will be available here soon.

Patricio Bernal, IOC Executive Secretary and Philippe Vallette, Director of Nausicaá, will give a press conference on World Ocean Day international scope on 3 June 3. The IOC and Nausicaá is the World Ocean Network Office.

A photo exhibition on the underwater cultural heritage is organized from 8 to 10 June in Hall Ségur, Fontenoy Building, UNESCO, Paris.