WestMED Launches New Technical Group on Blue Skills to Boost a Skilled and Resilient Mediterranean Blue Economy

In early 2026, the WestMED Initiative launched a new Technical Group on Blue Skills, strengthening cooperation among Western Mediterranean countries to develop the skills needed for a sustainable, competitive, and innovation‑driven blue economy.

The group responds to the mandate of the 2023 Malta Ministerial Declaration, where Ministers identified Blue Skills and Jobs as a top regional priority. It builds on the growing recognition that human capital — from vocational training to advanced ocean‑technology expertise – is essential to accelerate the green and digital transitions across the region.

The Technical Group will focus on emerging and future‑oriented skills, including marine renewable energy, sustainable fisheries and aquaculture, marine biotechnology, coastal resilience, circular blue economy solutions, and green maritime transport. It will also promote mobility, twinning, and cooperation between education providers, research institutions, industry, and public authorities across both shores of the Mediterranean.

Key activities include mapping regional skills gaps, supporting joint project development, strengthening links between education and industry, and facilitating access to EU and regional funding opportunities. The group will work in alignment with major EU frameworks such as the European Ocean Pact, Pact for Skills, BlueComp, and the Pact for the Mediterranean.

The Technical Group is co‑led by Tunisia and Portugal, supported by the WestMED Assistance Mechanism and in close collaboration with the European Commission. It will also build synergies with the Atlantic Maritime Strategy, ensuring cross‑basin learning on blue skills and ocean literacy.

With this new Technical Group, WestMED countries are taking a decisive step toward equipping the region’s workforce with the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving blue economy.

Visit the Blue Skills Technical Group page