Ocean Affairs Council is committed to advancing accessible ocean policies to ensure that persons with disabilities can equally enjoy the right to engage with and experience the ocean. To better understand the practical needs of persons with disabilities in accessing marine environments, the Council convened expert consultation meetings, inviting scholars, specialists, and representatives from disability advocacy groups to jointly discuss ways to improve accessible facilities and create a more inclusive marine environment where everyone can freely connect with the ocean.
In addition, the Ocean Affairs Council collaborated with Ministry of Health and Welfare, the Financial Supervisory Commission, Ministry of the Interior, Ministry of Transportation and Communications, Ministry of Education, and local governments to formulate the “Guidelines for Promoting an Accessible Ocean Framework.” The guidelines were officially announced on January 16, 2025, to serve as a reference for coastal recreation authorities and related operators in building a more comprehensive and accessible ocean environment.
To further promote the concept of ocean equity and encourage broader participation in accessible marine activities, the Ocean Affairs Council announced the “2025 Ocean Accessibility Program” on March 18, 2025. The program encourages universities, colleges, and civic organizations to integrate diverse marine recreational activities tailored for persons with disabilities, disadvantaged groups, and senior citizens. Activities include scuba diving, canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), eco-guided tours, and other marine recreational experiences. Through these initiatives, the Council aims to deepen public understanding of the ocean while fostering the core values of loving, engaging with, and sustaining the ocean.
In 2025,18 projects were approved for funding under this program. Through public-private department collaboration, the initiative encouraged schools and non-governmental organizations to actively participate in promoting ocean accessibility. More than 115 accessible ocean activities were held throughout the year, inviting the public to join in support of the vision of “An Ocean with Love, Accessible for All.” The ocean should become a shared public resource where everyone can safely approach, experience joy, and create meaningful memories together.