South Cotswolds MP Joins UN Ocean Conference in France to Champion Global Marine Protection

South Cotswolds MP, Roz Savage, has joined a cross-party UK delegation at the United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC) in Nice, taking part in discussions aimed at accelerating global efforts to protect and restore the world’s oceans.

The Conference, co-hosted by France and Costa Rica, brought together governments, scientists, NGOs, and civil society groups from around the world to build momentum behind Sustainable Development Goal 14: conserving and sustainably using the ocean and its resources.

The event follows mounting international pressure for countries to ratify the Global Ocean Treaty – a landmark agreement to protect marine biodiversity beyond national jurisdictions (BBNJ). Roz has been a vocal supporter of the Treaty in Parliament and has recently called on the Government to bring the ratification process before the House ahead of the first Ocean Conference of the Parties, scheduled for 2026.

In a question to the Leader of the House, Lucy Powell MP, Roz asked: “The Leader of the House will be well aware that the global ocean treaty has still not had its passage through the House. With the first ever ocean conference of the parties coming up quickly, next year, will she confirm when the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction agreement will be brought forward for ratification?”

Roz’s personal connection to the ocean is long established. Before entering politics, she made history as the first woman to row solo across three oceans: the Atlantic, Pacific and Indian Oceans - a feat that earned her four Guinness World Records and global recognition for her advocacy on ocean and climate issues.

The momentum behind the Global Ocean Treaty continues to build, with countries including France and the USA recently backing its ratification before the end of this year. To enter into force, at least 60 nations must formally ratify the Treaty - a milestone campaigners hope will unlock a wave of new protections across the high seas.  

Speaking after the Conference, Roz said: “Watching world leaders commit to protecting our ocean, I was filled with hope - but also a deep sense of urgency. We must bring this Treaty to Parliament and get it over the line. The oceans cover 70% of our planet, and provide 50% of our oxygen, as well as much of our food. We’re not just talking about ocean health here – we're talking about human health, and we can’t afford further delay. Having spent over 500 days at sea in a tiny rowboat, I’ve seen both the beauty and the fragility of our blue planet up close. Sir David Attenborough’s recent documentary, Ocean, reminded us all of the wonders beneath the waves - and what we stand to lose if we fail to act.”

ENDS