The Africa-Europe Foundation (AEF) recognizes the vital role of youth in shaping ocean governance and the blue economy, underscoring the urgent need to invest in their agency and prioritize their leadership. However, there is a need for a comprehensive understanding of the existing ecosystem to foster collaboration and establish impactful cross-continental initiatives.

With this in mind, this report aims to serve as a living document, providing a first attempt at mapping various youth-led blue innovation initiatives, platforms and profiles across Africa and Europe. It advocates for empowering African and European youth to drive ocean and climate action, with the goal to support the development of a cross continental network of young leaders and establishing an Africa-Europe Youth Ambassador Program focused on ocean governance and the blue economy. Additionally, this report seeks to raise awareness of current challenges faced, enhance ocean literacy, and cultivate a youth-centered Africa-Europe Ocean community while strengthening the partnership between the two continents.

The report highlights the increasing engagement of youth in the sustainable management of ocean resources, fostering economic growth while safeguarding marine ecosystems. Young people from both Africa and Europe are actively participating in the global efforts related to climate action, biodiversity conservation and pollution managment through avenues such as academia, activism, entrepreneurship,
and policy advocacy. Central to their efforts is a dynamic process of acquiring, creating, and sharing knowledge about environmental protection and regeneration within their communities, as well as on national, regional, and global platforms.