Empowering NGOs: A Practical Guide to Advancing the Ocean Decade's Vision

The United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021–2030), known as the “Ocean Decade,” represents a global call to action for transformative, co-designed science that supports a thriving and sustainable Ocean. Central to this effort is the recognition that science must be inclusive, solutions-oriented, and deeply connected to the needs of society. Among the key actors advancing this vision are Non-Governmental Organizations (N GOs), civil society stakeholders that are deeply embedded in local, national, and international contexts and uniquely positioned to bridge the science-policy-society interface. This paper explores the practical and strategic roles that NGOs can play in advancing the Ocean Decade's mission, vision, and actionable objectives. It highlights the integration of Ocean Literacy, equity, and participatory engagement as essential pillars of sustainable development. Ocean Literacy is not only a foundational outcome of the Ocean Decade, but also a key enabler, fostering shared understanding, amplifying community voices, and empowering informed action across all sectors of society. As we move into the latter half of the Decade, there is an urgent need for renewed investment in inclusive, science-based collaboration. This is achievable in part by situating NGO contributions within the broader goals of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, including efforts that support multiple interlinked Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This paper presents concrete examples of how N GOs, regardless of scale, focus, or capacity, can lead, co-lead, and actively participate in Ocean Decade Actions and Activities to drive lasting systemic change in support of a healthy and resilient Ocean for all.