Thursday, March 20 – Moetai BROTHERSON, President of French Polynesia, accompanied by Taivini TEAI, Minister of Marine Resources, received the delegation of the organization Blue Cradle, led by James NIKITINE, CEO. This meeting was part of a shared kaupapa, reflecting values common to Pacific peoples, such as respect for the ocean, knowledge transmission, and ecosystem preservation for future generations.
Discussions focused on challenges in scientific research, environmental education, and sustainable innovation for marine protection. The delegation warmly thanked the President for his welcome and for his interest in the actions carried out by Blue Cradle for a sustainable oceanic future.
In the afternoon, the Minister of Marine Resources attended the press conference for the Tiaki Moana event, which will take place in Tahiti and Mo’orea from March 24 to 28. This event is part of the 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC 3), to be held in Nice in June 2025.
Tiaki Moana is a community movement bringing together communities from 25 Pacific island states to integrate and adapt traditional marine conservation practices within the global framework of Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measures (OECMs).
Rāhui, mātaitai, taiāpure, as well as regulated fishing zones in French Polynesia, are powerful models of sustainable ocean management. Rooted in traditional and indigenous ecological knowledge, these practices play a crucial role in preserving marine ecosystems and strengthening conservation initiatives worldwide.
This initiative is led by Blue Cradle, a non-profit organization based in New Zealand, dedicated to ocean protection and regeneration. By combining science, education, and community action, Blue Cradle supports marine conservation by fostering collaboration among scientists, policymakers, and local communities, and by training the ocean leaders of tomorrow.
"The Tiaki Moana initiative empowers the next generation of ocean leaders and recognizes the vital role of indigenous and local communities that have been protecting our oceans for centuries. Together, we can amplify efforts to preserve the Pacific and encourage regional collaboration for ocean conservation worldwide." — Samantha ROWLAND, Chair, Blue Cradle
"The Pacific Ocean is the pillar of our cultures, economies, and ecosystems. Tiaki Moana brings together indigenous knowledge, science, and policy to drive ambitious collective action for marine protection. The time has come to safeguard our ocean for future generations." — James NIKITINE, Founder & Director, Blue Cradle Foundation
From March 24 to 28, Tahiti will host over 150 participants and 40 young leaders engaged in ocean protection. This intensive interregional capacity-building and leadership program will bring together renowned experts such as Matt BATEMAN and Philippe GERBEAUX, who will work alongside participants to defend Pacific marine heritage and strengthen regional cooperation. Local stakeholders—including management committee representatives, the Rahui Center, associations, government services, and engaged youth—will also participate in this week of collaboration to share their Polynesian approaches with other Pacific regions.
This meeting will provide an opportunity for constructive exchange and the development of common approaches for preserving marine ecosystems. Discussions will focus on topics such as sustainable resource management, marine biodiversity challenges, and climate change impacts. By combining their skills and expertise, participants will collaborate to strengthen the resilience of coastal communities and promote innovative, sustainable solutions for ocean protection.
This initiative represents a decisive moment for marine conservation and the recognition of traditional practices as essential levers for preserving marine ecosystems.
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