Part of the global Rights of Nature movement, Rights of the Deep advocates for recognizing the deep sea—home to vast biodiversity and critical mineral resources—as an ecosystem with intrinsic rights to protection and preservation. This largely unexplored “last frontier” is increasingly threatened by deep seabed mining, regulated by the International Seabed Authority (ISA), a UN body responsible for governing the extraction of these shared resources known as the “common heritage of (hu)mankind”. While the deep ocean’s minerals are positioned as essential for a green energy transition, its ecosystems face unprecedented risks from potential exploitation.
Rights of the Deep Open Letter
Bringing together Indigenous Pacific leaders/activists, legal scholars, and marine scientists, Rights of the Deep features an open letter reimagining humanity’s relationship with the deep ocean. This letter addresses the ecological and cultural significance of these remote ecosystems and calls for a transformative shift in ocean governance. Presented as part of a wall-based artwork inspired by global ocean circulation diagrams, the letter is also available in print and online, encouraging audiences to reflect on ethical and sustainable ways to protect the ocean’s vitality.
Vital Signs exhibition, Science Gallery London
A collaboration with artist Emma Critchley, Rights of the Deep is part of the Vital Signs exhibition at Science Gallery London (13 November 2024 – 17 May 2025), inviting visitors to consider how Indigenous wisdom, legal advocacy, and scientific research can converge to inspire a more inclusive and responsible approach to ocean stewardship.
Read the Rights of the Deep letter here
Letter co-written by: Emma Critchley, Mekhala Dave, Pradeep Arjan Singh with Pacific-based experts: Solomon Pili Kahoʻohalahala, Edwin “Ekolu” Lindsey, Alanna Matamaru Smith, Frank Murphy, Quack Pirihi, Hinano Teavai-Murphy. Advisors: Dr Emily Barritt, Kristina Gjerde JD, Dr Maila Guilhon, Professor Kerry Howell, Professor Rachel Mills. Post Graduate Legal Researcher: Saifeddine Benamar
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VITAL SIGNS: another world is possible
Season exhibition now on at Science Gallery London
13 Nov 2024 – 17 May 2025
Image: Rights of the Deep (2024), Emma Critchley, Vital Signs, Science Gallery London (photo by George Torode Photography