Page 5 - Livre_MOW2022_EN

In regard to the ocean, as well as in regard to the world’s
major issues, the climate and biodiversity, we must reaffirm
the importance of a shared vision of things based on collective
values and geared towards the common good. For current
generations as well as future generations.

The ocean offers us a particularly relevant example of this. It is central to most of the
major changes occurring in our world. It directly feeds more than three billion of our
contemporaries. It withstands the bulk of global trade. It contains infinite resources of
renewable energy such as mineral resources which are increasingly coveted. It plays a
key role in the mitigation of global warming. Lastly, it is home to a biodiversity that is so
valuable yet so endangered.

Whatever way we see our future, the ocean plays a key role. A role made up of tension
and contradiction which are intrinsic to our world and which we need to address.

For the ocean probably more than any other component of our planet, we therefore
need to come up with new ways of organising our activities, reconciling our ambitions,
and protecting our common heritage together. (…)

We must be guided by a concern to adopt a collective approach, to strengthen the
political tools which are the initial expression, and to mobilise civil society as a whole –
from public opinion to businesses, as well as NGOs and scientists. Our goal must be to
take action all together, without delay.

Excerpt from the address by HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco, during the 13 edition of the Monaco
th
Blue Initiative on 21 March 2022.

HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco