With all eyes on the ocean thanks to Sir David Attenborough's well-timed premiere, the UN Ocean Conference (UNOC) in Nice next month is sure to be one to watch.
But, say Lancaster University researchers, while it is hoped that progress will be made at the event to conserve and protect the ocean into the future, the design of any sustainable initiatives must be led by the local communities.
In a context of growing interests in the 'blue economy', they say the need for an approach that provides ethical and legal protection to ocean populations has never been so pressing.
Prioritising the experiences and voices of local communities in co-designing, monitoring and co-delivering blue economy initiatives is paramount.
Attending the conference, Dr Celine Germond-Duret and Dr Senia Febrica (Department of Politics, Philosophy and Religion) together with Dr Alexandra Harrington (Law School) will, through various activities co-organised with UN agencies, governments and NGOs, champion a fair and inclusive blue economy that promotes justice for all.
The Lancaster social scientists have led the organisation of one of the 'side events' at the conference, during which the Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia, H.E. Arief Havas Oegroseno, will deliver a keynote speech on June 9.
Entitled 'Ocean justice: Championing fair and inclusive blue economy' the solution-focused side event will explore innovation and best practices that could serve as viable routes to ocean justice.
Dr Germond-Duret said: "Social justice has often been the forgotten dimension of sustainability. The fast developments happening in the ocean and the increased interests in its monetary value call for greater attention to the needs and rights of vulnerable communities.
"Our participation in UNOC is a fantastic opportunity to engage with stakeholders and champion the need to foster not just a blue economy with social justice, but a blue economy for social justice."
