Freeport, Bahamas—In a powerful reaffirmation of The Bahamas’ commitment to ocean conservation, Prime Minister Philip E. Davis has officially proclaimed the week of June 2–8, 2025, as National Ocean Protection Week. This marks the third consecutive year the Prime
Minister has made this declaration at the request of Waterkeepers Bahamas (WKB) and the Bahamas Reef Environment Educational Foundation (BREEF)—two key members of the Our Islands, Our Future (OIOF) coalition.
The announcement comes as Waterkeepers Bahamas prepares to represent the OIOF coalition on the world stage at the United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3) in Nice, France. There, the team will participate in a pivotal side event titled “Our Ocean, Our Rights: Centring Human Rights and Frontline Communities in Achieving SDG14” hosted by IBERO, The Ocean Foundation, Earth Law Center, and other partners. The event will spotlight how communities like those in The Bahamas are uniquely positioned—and obligated—to lead ocean stewardship efforts grounded in justice, inclusion, and local leadership.
“This is an extraordinary opportunity,” said Andurah Daxon, Executive Director of Waterkeepers Bahamas. “To carry the voice of Bahamians to a global platform and share how we’re protecting our oceans through community-driven action and advocacy is a testament to the growing recognition of The Bahamas as a leader in marine conservation.”
“As a large ocean nation, home to over 35% of the region’s coral reefs, tremendous biodiversity and marine resources, and a strong track record of ocean protection, The Bahamas has an opportunity to lead the way,” stated Casuarina McKinney-Lambert, Executive Director of BREEF Bahamas Reef Environment Educational Foundation.
The proclamation recognizes the growing risks The Bahamas faces from climate change, including sea level rise, coral bleaching, ocean acidification, and superstorms. It highlights the urgent need for collective action to protect marine ecosystems and the livelihoods that depend on them.
It also celebrates the tireless efforts of local organizations like Waterkeepers Bahamas and BREEF in engaging communities, promoting sustainable tourism, fisheries, and advocating for bold environmental policies.
While in Nice, the Waterkeepers Bahamas team will also continue its work to raise international awareness around the Our Islands, Our Future campaign, including ongoing efforts to secure a permanent ban on oil drilling in Bahamian waters.
As the world comes together this World Oceans Day (June 8th), The Bahamas stands tall as a proud ocean nation, committed to protecting its waters not only for today but for generations
to come.