This summer, the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of UNESCO launched the State of the Ocean Report 2024. The Report has the ambition to inform policymakers about the state of the ocean, to catalyse research, shape policy actions, and ensure a sustainable ocean future, aligned with the vision of achieving “the ocean we need for the future we want.”

The Report is structured around the seven outcomes of the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development, providing information about the achievement of the UN Ocean Decade objectives. The different sections address physical, chemical, ecological, socio-economic and governance aspects.

We are pleased to share that ODHN and CHFP-affiliated authors had the opportunity to contribute to the Report. Cultural heritage is highlighted multiple times, connected to UNESCO World Heritage Sites, coastal habitats, Indigenous knowledge, and ocean literacy, reflecting its increasing importance in global discussions. While there is still work to be done to fully elevate the recognition of cultural heritage within the Decade, it is encouraging to see its growing prominence. ODHN is committed to striving for even better inclusion in the next State of the Ocean Report.

Discover the full report at IOC/UNESCO: State of the Ocean Report 2024.