As coral reefs bleach, fish stocks collapse, and sea temperatures break records, world leaders are heading to the French Riviera — not for leisure, but for one of the most urgent diplomatic gatherings of the year.

NEW YORK, Jun 06 (IPS) - The ocean is far more than a vast expanse of water; it is a cornerstone of life and a critical driver of sustainable development. The intricate relationship between human development and the ocean underscores why ocean governance and sustainability are pivotal to global progress. Its significance becomes particularly evident in Small Island Developing States (SIDS), where the ocean is not just a resource but an intrinsic part of identity and survival.

What did the UN Ocean Conference deliver for marine life? Join the World Federation for Animals as we unpack the “Nice Ocean Action Plan” and assess whether the conference lived up to its ambition. W...