The project ‘Blue Shield: Strengthening European Maritime Security’ proposes a cross-sectoral, citizen-oriented initiative that aims to foster reflection, dialogue and collaboration between decision-makers, civil society, academia (civil and military) and industry on the current state of maritime security in the European Union (EU). At a time when the European maritime space is playing an increasingly fundamental role in the EU's strategic autonomy, sustainability and capacity for innovation, this project promotes a shared European vision of the oceans as a space for multilateralism, cooperation, resilience and peace. Through an integrated programme based on an interdisciplinary workshop, civic debates and publications aimed at supporting political decision-making, the project contributes to strengthening the EU's internal cohesion, the exchange of good practices between Member States, and the EU's capacity for action as a global player. At the same time, it promotes informed decision-making and citizens' ownership of their rights and opportunities for civic participation within the framework of a more active “blue” citizenship. The creation of a Blue Shield Network, as a community of experts, and a Blue Shield Hub, as a digital platform for bottom-up civil society participation, will ensure that the results achieved will have a strong multiplier effect, in close coordination with relevant EU institutions and agencies.