Organizers: The Ocean Defenders Project, AIDA, IUCN CEESP People and the Ocean Specialist Group, WWF, The University of British Columbia, and RISE UP

Date and time: Wednesday 11 June, 17:30 - 18:45

Location: Rise Up Ocean Base Camp, La Baleine (Second Pavilion, Palais des Expos de Nice - Parvis de l'Europe, 06000 Nice)

**You are warmly invited to a drinks reception as part of this event**

Event description:
The ocean economy is rapidly gaining momentum. However, for it to be truly sustainable and equitable, it must be developed with the full inclusion of local coastal communities, ensuring their participation in decision-making, fair distribution of benefits, and the protection of their human rights. The United Nations has affirmed the human right to a clean, healthy, and sustainable ocean. Yet, the ocean economy is often producing negative social and economic impacts on local communities, and human rights are increasingly undermined by exclusion from decision-making, displacement, biodiversity loss, and pollution. Furthermore, the individuals and communities of ocean defenders who seek to advocate for the protection of the ocean environment and human rights are often experiencing marginalization, criminalization, threats, attacks, and even murders.

This official side event will spotlight the powerful voices and lived experiences of ocean defenders, offering participants the opportunity to learn directly from their struggles, resistance, and aspirations for the future of their communities and seascapes. During the event, we'll drive to build momentum in support of ocean defenders, celebrating their testimonies with the launch of a Call to Action that encourages allied organizations to mobilize support for and safeguard ocean defenders!

For more information, please visit The Ocean Defenders Project.