High quality scientific information is needed to support evidence-based policy decisions. The challenge for the scientific community is to transfer reliable, robust and impartial evidence into complex policy arenas. In the context of JPI Oceans, science-policy has two meanings. Being driven by policy makers, JPI Oceans must ensure that all policy relevant scientific research carried out as part of a joint programming activity is effectively targeted towards and communicated to relevant policy mechanisms. Secondly, JPI Oceans is in a position to improve and add value to existing science-policy mechanisms.