More than 800 delegates from over 80 countries gathered in Colombo, Sri Lanka, for Sharks International 2026, the world’s largest conference dedicated to shark, ray, and chimaera science and conservation. Hosted by Blue Resources Trust with support from the Save Our Seas Foundation, the event marked the first time the global conference was held in Asia.
The conference brought together researchers, policymakers, conservationists, educators, students, and science communicators to discuss urgent challenges facing sharks and rays, with nearly one-third of species currently threatened with extinction. Participants explored topics ranging from marine ecology and genetics to fisheries management, biodiversity conservation, and international trade enforcement.
A major focus of the event was the growing need to connect scientific research with policy action. Sessions examined the implementation of international protections under CITES, sustainable fisheries management, and the role of community-driven conservation strategies. Researchers also discussed emerging concerns such as the expanding trade in stingray skins for luxury leather products and the broader impacts of shark and ray exploitation on marine ecosystems and food security.
The conference highlighted how shark and ray science has become increasingly interdisciplinary, incorporating social science, criminology, communication, and local community engagement. Discussions emphasized the importance of involving artisanal fishers, coastal communities, and indigenous knowledge systems in conservation planning and marine management.
Young researchers and early-career scientists played a prominent role throughout the event, presenting studies from regions including Africa, South Asia, the Mediterranean, Australia, and Latin America. New research explored issues such as shark trade dynamics, gender roles in fisheries, marine protected areas, and the cultural dimensions of shark consumption.
Science communication also emerged as a central theme, with experts stressing that conservation research must be translated into accessible public narratives to drive meaningful policy and behavioral change. Delegates discussed how storytelling, media, photography, and education can strengthen public engagement around marine conservation.
Organizers placed strong emphasis on accessibility and inclusivity, offering travel grants and registration support to researchers from the Global South and early-career scientists. The initiative helped broaden international representation and challenged long-standing perceptions about limited scientific capacity in developing regions.
The event concluded with renewed momentum for global shark and ray conservation efforts, highlighting the importance of collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and inclusive participation as the conservation community prepares for the next Sharks International conference in Malaysia.
