Our Mission
The Office of Ocean and Polar Affairs (OPA) is a part of the State Department’s Bureau of Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs (OES). OPA is responsible for formulating and implementing U.S. policy on international issues concerning the ocean, the Arctic, and the Antarctic.
Key Topics
Law of the Sea
OPA is responsible for developing, coordinating, negotiating, and implementing U.S. foreign policy with respect to the law of the sea and oversees the U.S. Extended Continental Shelf (ECS) Project. OPA also maintains a list of maritime boundaries between the U.S. and other nations.
Learn More about Law of the Sea Law of the SeaMaritime Security
OPA works with U.S. agencies and international and nongovernmental organizations to coordinate U.S. foreign policy on maritime security. It also examines coastal States’ maritime claims and/or boundaries and assess their consistency with international law.
Learn More about Maritime Security Maritime SecurityMarine Environment
OPA promotes U.S. economic, security, and environmental interests by advancing international efforts to conserve and sustainably use the ocean and its resources.
Learn More about Marine Environment Marine EnvironmentMarine Science
OPA develops, coordinates, negotiates, and implements U.S. foreign policy with respect to marine science and research, including Marine Scientific Research Authorizations.
Learn More about Marine Scientific Research Marine ScienceArctic & Antarctic
OPA develops and implements U.S. foreign policy as it relates to the Arctic region; and it also leads United States participation in the Arctic Council, an intergovernmental forum of the eight Arctic States. OPA also develops and coordinates U.S. policy affecting the Antarctic region, working to ensure that the Antarctic continues to be reserved for peace and science and to conserve marine life in the Southern Ocean.
Learn More about Polar Affairs Arctic & Antarctic