The third UN Ocean Conference (June 9–13, 2025) in Nice united states, scientists, and NGOs on ocean conservation. The Whale brought the topic to life for visitors as part of the public Green Zone.
From 2–13 June 2025, The Whale aimed to raise public awareness on ocean challenges and solutions; foster dialogue between science, culture, technology, and diplomacy; showcase maritime regions of France and Costa Rica; present research, projects, negotiations, and field testimonies; engage NGOs, indigenous peoples, Global South countries, impact-driven companies, and foundations; and affirm the ocean as a shared good to protect, experience, and reinvent.
The Whale was the first UN initiative to open a conference to the public, pioneering a new form of participatory diplomacy in a free, inclusive way. Like the belly of a whale, a 10,000?m² immersive space offered a multisensory journey where science, art, knowledge, and diplomacy converged. Fluid, organic scenography guided visitors along a giant floor-printed Spilhaus map, past remarkable objects, artworks, 15 themed live-stage pavilions, experience lounges, and a central Agora, while a live radio/podcast studio, media room, and lounges amplified voices. Open and modular, the narrative space invited intuitive discovery. Free flows and personalized journeys created a dynamic environment. Immersive projections, interactive exhibits, workshops, and open calls for performances, events, and projects from diverse contributors, curated by scientific and cultural committees, fostered plurality, collective ownership, and a rich, diverse cultural and scientific program.
