STATEMENT: Conservation International CEO on French Polynesia’s Historic New Marine Protected Area

NICE, France (June 8, 2025) – Conservation International today issued the following statement in support of President Moetai Brotherson’s announcement at UNOC regarding new protections for French Polynesia’s Marine Managed Area. The government plans to designate the entire 4.5 million square kilometer area as a marine protected area including significant areas under high levels of protection, paired with measures to advance sustainable fisheries and ban deep-sea mining.

Dr. M. Sanjayan, CEO of Conservation International, said: 

“This is a big deal — for French Polynesia and its people, and for the planet. President Brotherson and his team have stepped up to protect one of the largest and most vibrant stretches of ocean anywhere in the world. These waters are teeming with life — sharks, whales, sea turtles, and coral reefs that are among the healthiest ever studied. For the people of French Polynesia, the ocean is everything: it sustains livelihoods, nourishes communities, and anchors cultural identity. Protecting it means safeguarding a way of life — and offering the world a powerful example of bold ocean leadership.

"For over a decade the French Polynesian government, working closely with local mayoral groups and communities, scientists, FAPE and international partners such as Pew Bertarelli Ocean Legacy, have sought to enhance marine protection of what is the largest contiguous exclusive economic zone on the planet. President Brotherson and his cabinet have seized the opportunity and today's announcement represents a holistic commitment to ocean conservation in these Pacific waters, marrying highly protected areas, sustainable fishing practices and traditional approaches to marine management such as Rahui.  

"This announcement is also a major step toward the Blue Nature Alliance’s mission to work with partners to effectively protect more of the ocean at a global scale. Conservation International, as a core partner of the Blue Nature Alliance is excited to support the long-term implementation of these world leading commitments, in coordination with the French Polynesian government, local partners, and a coalition of donors. 

"The work to get here wasn’t easy, and the road ahead won’t be either. But this moment is proof that lasting conservation is possible when leadership is local and partnerships are truly aligned.”

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