Speaking notes
Dr. Mona Nemer
Chief Science Advisor of Canada
Reflecting on the Barcelona Statement: The Science–Policy Nexus
Ocean Decade Forum Opening Session
Centre Universitaire Méditerranéen
Nice, France
June 11, 2025
Check against delivery
Hello, colleagues and distinguished guests. It is an honor for me to address you today on behalf of Canada, as we gather to discuss the progress made under the Barcelona Statement.
As a nation deeply connected to our oceans — from the Atlantic to the Pacific to the Arctic — Canada understands the challenges confronting marine environments are complex and require innovative, science-led approaches.
Rising temperatures, declining biodiversity and the pressures placed on coastal communities demand coordinated global responses.
Science gives us the tools to understand these changes and to act.
It provides the data we need to monitor fish stocks, identify pollution hotspots, map the seabed, and protect critical ecosystems.
From satellites in orbit to sensors on the seafloor, science helps us see what is happening — and what’s at stake.
If we are to achieve a healthy, resilient, and sustainable ocean, then the interface between science and policy must be not just functional — it must be fully fit for purpose.
Because the ocean doesn’t wait for consensus. It changes with or without our decisions.
That means having in place structures that bring scientists and policymakers into regular dialogue — not just in crises, but routinely.
It means building a culture of mutual respect, where scientific independence is safeguarded and policy realities are understood.
It means investing in sustained observing and open data that is accessible across borders and sectors, because if we can't measure ocean change, we can't manage it.
And it means working with Indigenous knowledge holders and communities, who bring generations of insight to complex marine systems.
This is where the UN Decade of Ocean Science plays such a vital role — not only in generating new knowledge, but in creating a global movement to ensure that knowledge leads to action.
It gives us common language, common platforms, and common purpose.
Canada is proud to be part of this effort, through programs that link data to decision-making, support community-led conservation, and connect ocean science with global goals.
As a science advisor, I believe our shared challenge is not just to produce better science — but to build better pathways for science to inform decisions that are urgent, inclusive, and enduring.
Because translating ocean science into policy isn’t a technical problem. It’s a leadership opportunity.
Let’s make sure the science we have — and the science we’re still discovering — leads to action that’s worthy of the ocean we depend on. Thank you.