Ocean Rights is the recognition of the Ocean as a living entity with intrinsic value and inherent rights.
The Ocean Rights Vision is to achieve an ethical relationship between humanity and the Ocean. A relationship where:
Ocean Rights Around the World
To share an Ocean Rights initiative we may have missed, please use this form. Tracking is done in partnership with the Eco-Jurisprudence Monitor, and inclusion is subject to specific criteria.
Testimonials
“I call upon all member countries to join us in recognizing the inherent rights of the ocean, collectively shaping a brighter future for generations to come."
Prime Minister of Cabo Verde, Ulisses Correia e Silva, at The Ocean Race Summit - Presenting Ocean Rights in September 2023.
“We now find ourselves asking that the international community recognise that the ocean has rights. The right to perform all of her natural functions, the right to have a voice in all of the decisions that affect her health, the right to clean water and a healthy existence.”
Jacqueline Evans, 2019 Goldman Environmental Prize Recipient speech.
“We need to think about the rights of other creatures, of other systems, of the ocean, as if our life depended on it.”
Dr. Sylvia Earle, Oceanographer, National Geographic Explorer-In-Residence and Founder of Mission Blue at The Ocean Race Summit - Presenting Ocean Rights in September 2023.
“Time is running out to protect ourselves and the marine ecosystems that assure the health and biodiversity of our planet and all who live in and on it. By recognizing and enforcing ocean rights, we can safeguard climate and ocean protection and sustainably manage not only the economic bounties that the ocean brings us but recognise the cultural and social importance that the ocean brings to our souls, our bodies and our minds.”
Antoinette Vermilye, Gallifrey Foundation and Ocean Champion.
Welcome to the central hub for Ocean Rights — a space to learn, connect and coordinate action towards advancing an ethical human-Ocean relationship.
Sign the Ocean Rights Declaration
Join the Ocean Rights movement today! By signing the declaration, you stand with a growing number of individuals, organisations, governments and institutions committed to protecting and restoring the Ocean’s health and integrity.
Supporting Organisations
