The IOC is an intergovernmental organization established in 1960. Its purpose is to promote international cooperation and to coordinate programmes in research, services and capacity-building, in order to learn more about the nature and resources of the ocean and coastal areas and to apply that knowledge for the improvement of management, sustainable development the protection of the marine environment, and the decision-making processes of its Member States.

As recognized in the UN Sustainable Development Goal No 14 the healthier and resilient the ocean, the more positive its contribution to the environmental, social and economic dimensions of sustainable development and vice versa. The Ocean is a jointly shared value. 

IOC Brochure - English version  

IOC Brochure - Spanish version