2020 South Africa Virtual - Concept note

The All-Atlantic Ocean Research Forum took place virtually via South Africa from 3 to 4 December 2020. The event has been hosted by South Africa’s Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) in collaboration with the Directorate-General for Research and Innovation of the European Commission.

The Forum has provided a platform for a diverse audience, ranging from policy makers, research leaders and academics to civil society representatives, entrepreneurs and the youth, to engage in inspirational topics relating to the Atlantic Ocean.

The COVID-19 pandemic has severely impacted the economies of the Atlantic countries. Accordingly, the theme of the Forum focused on how the All-Atlantic Ocean Research Alliance can contribute to the socio-economic recovery from the pandemic.

The Forum showcased the progress of initiatives to support the implementation of the Belém and Galway statements. These initiatives are aligned with the relevant blueprints of the All-Atlantic partners, such as South Africa’s Operation Phakisa Oceans Economy, the European Union’s Blue Growth Strategy, the Brazilian Blue Economy, Canada’s Ocean Strategy, as well as the relevant policies and strategies of the United States of America.

The Forum explored a range of related topics, including the society interface for a healthier Atlantic; skills for a changing Atlantic; Atlantic Ocean collaborative and data infrastructure; initiatives under the All-Atlantic Ocean Research Community; the launch of a new intake of All-Atlantic Ocean Youth Ambassadors; and the contribution of the Alliance towards the UN Decade of Ocean Science and the Sustainable Development Goals.a