EuroGOOS International Conference 2026 kicks off in Cyprus

The 11th EuroGOOS International Conference officially opened on 18 May 2026 in Larnaca, Cyprus, bringing together the ocean observing and operational oceanography community under the theme “Stronger Together”.

Held under the auspices of the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the European Union 2026 and endorsed as a United Nations Ocean Decade activity, the conference gathers experts to discuss the future of ocean knowledge and ocean observing in Europe and beyond.

The conference opened with welcoming remarks from Holger Brix, EuroGOOS Chair; Zacharias Siokouros, Chief Executive Officer of the conference hosts, the Cyprus Marine and Maritime Institute (CMMI); and Christos Aspris, Senior Officer at the Deputy Ministry of Research, Innovation and Digital Policy.

Day 1 highlights

The first day featured plenary Sessions 1–4, panel discussions, and the opening of the poster session, showcasing research, collaborative initiatives, and new ideas from across the European and international ocean observing community.

Throughout the day, discussions focused on innovation in observations, modelling, and forecasting; digital transformation and data quality; and stakeholder engagement and inclusivity.

Panel discussions also explored the coordination of the European seas, the role of marine research infrastructures, and regional contributions to global ocean observing.

Reflecting the spirit of this year’s theme, participants highlighted the importance of working stronger together across sectors and disciplines to support a sustainable ocean future.

The first day of the conference also coincided with the International Day for Women in Maritime, recognising the important contribution of women to ocean science, operational oceanography, and maritime innovation.

EuroGOOS thanks all speakers, moderators, panellists, poster presenters, and participants for an inspiring start to the conference.