Advancing Justice in Marine Biodiversity Governance

​Advancing Justice in Marine Biodiversity Governance: What Does CBD Decision 14/8 on Equity and Justice Mean for Implementing the Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework in Practice?

​📅 Monday, October 19 | 14:30–15:45 Yerevan time

​📍 Ocean Pavilion, Blue Zone, Meridian Expo Center

​🔹 Blue Zone access required

​Can marine biodiversity conservation succeed without recognizing the rights, knowledge, and voices of the communities who depend on and protect the ocean?

​As the world reviews progress on the Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework at CBD COP17, an important question remains: Are global commitments to equity, epistemic justice, participation, gender equality, and community rights translating into meaningful changes in how our oceans are governed?

​Bringing together perspectives from Indigenous Peoples and local communities, women's groups, governments, civil society, and researchers, this dialogue will explore the progress and gaps in advancing justice in marine biodiversity governance. Through experiences from coastal communities and policy processes, the session will examine how rights, diverse knowledge systems, and meaningful participation can shape more equitable and effective marine conservation, and identify practical priorities for turning global commitments into action.