La Tribune Bleue is back for a second edition

Held under the patronage of the Société des membres de la Légion d’honneur (SMLH), a partner of the first edition, and the Académie de marine, and organised with the support of the Université Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne, La Tribune Bleue is gradually establishing itself as a forum for reflection and expression dedicated to maritime issues.

The competition offers young people the opportunity to have their say on the sea, to champion a vision for the ocean and to explore the balance between human activities and the conservation of natural environments.

For this new edition, several public speaking societies from leading French institutions are partners: Tribune des Ponts, RhetoriX and GéopolitiX (École Polytechnique), Révolte-toi Assas, Révolte-toi Sorbonne, Dauphine Éloquence, Lab’Oratoire HEC and Plaid’ESSEC.

This academic and voluntary sector ecosystem helps to nurture talented public speakers focusing on a central theme: the future of the ocean.

A competition open to new voices

The first stage of the competition will see ten finalists selected, who will have the opportunity to present their speeches at the grand final to be held at the Sorbonne on 25 April 2026, before an exceptional panel of judges.

The competition is open to university students, secondary school pupils and anyone with a passion for public speaking and social engagement.

To take part, entrants must submit a three-minute video on the following theme:

‘There are doors onto the sea that are opened with words.’—
Rafael Alberti

Rewards and opportunities

The Grand Prix, with a prize of 1,500 euros, will also offer the winner the opportunity to deliver their speech at a major centre of French politics or at an international conference.

The deadline for applications is 27 March 2026.

Applications can be submitted online via the dedicated form.

Looking beyond the public speaking competition, La Tribune Bleue reminds us that major maritime challenges require not only innovation, but also voices capable of championing them.