This webinar on 25 May 2026 brought together civil society organizations, community leaders, youth advocates and small-scale fisheries (SSF) representatives to explore how grassroots voices can meaningfully engage with the Our Ocean Conference (OOC) and broader ocean governance processes.
Co-organized by RISEUP, ICCA Consortium, EARFISH and Maliasili, the session provided participants with an overview of the Our Ocean Conference structure, key themes, and opportunities for engagement — both in-person and remotely.
Discussions highlighted the importance of ensuring that local priorities, civil society perspectives and community voices are reflected in global ocean governance conversations.
Key themes explored during the session included:
• Understanding the Our Ocean Conference and its decision-making processes
• Opportunities for civil society and community engagement
• Connections between biodiversity, climate action, fisheries, livelihoods, and equity
• Strategic communications and visibility during global ocean events
• Strengthening youth leadership and participation in ocean governance
• Community collaboration, side events, and collective advocacy opportunities
🎙 Speakers featured:
• Sivaja Nair – RISE UP
• Meaghan Cuddy – OOC Secretariat
• Barkha Mossae – IUCN
• Domino Albert – Comms Inc.
• Jessica Newfield – Sustainable Ocean Alliance
Moderated by Editrudith Lukanga (EMEDO, Tanzania).
The webinar also addressed participant questions on conference logistics, regional collaboration, advocacy opportunities from afar, blue food systems, BBNJ, 30×30 targets, SSF Guidelines and balancing marine conservation with community livelihoods.
