Oceana, international advocacy organization dedicated solely to ocean conservation, has appointed Vera Coelho as Executive Director and Vice President in Europe. Coelho, who joined Oceana in 2020 and has served as Deputy Vice President since 2022, has helped the organization win more than 20 policy victories for European waters.
Before joining Oceana, Coelho worked with The Pew Charitable Trusts to secure EU support and leadership on marine conservation and fisheries management. She also worked with Wetlands International and Seas At Risk to promote the adoption of EU environmental legislation, fisheries policy and regulation, and international treaties and agreements on climate and biodiversity.
“I’m honored to step into this role and continue leading Oceana’s incredible team in Europe. Together, we’ve shown that strong, science-based policies can deliver real results for our oceans and the communities that depend on them,” Coelho said. “The task is urgent. In the years ahead, we’ll keep pushing to make Europe a global leader in ocean conservation and restoration, leading to abundant fisheries and climate resilient, prosperous communities.”
The EU’s immense coastline spans the Atlantic and Arctic oceans and the Baltic, Mediterranean, and Black seas. The EU catches nearly 6% of all fish globally, and with the largest exclusive economic zone in the world, its decisions carry enormous weight for the health of our oceans. Under Coelho’s leadership, Oceana will continue campaigning to increase transparency in the fishing sector, promote responsible fishing practices, and expand protection of Europe’s waters by designating new marine protected areas (MPAs) and ensuring they are safeguarded from destructive activities like bottom trawling.
“We are delighted that Vera will lead Oceana’s team in Europe,” said CEO James Simon. “Vera has been key to Oceana’s success in Europe, including the adoption of the European Union’s revised Fisheries Control Regulation and Nature Restoration laws, designation of multiple marine protected areas, and sanctions on vessels fishing illegally. Her leadership, experience, and deep understanding of EU policy and advocacy will enable us to deliver even more ocean conservation victories across Europe.”
Since 2003, Oceana has achieved more than 60 policy victories for the oceans in Europe. Just last week, Oceana’s scientific expeditions, research, and advocacy led to the designation of five new MPAs in Spain, bringing the country’s total protected waters to over 22%. Oceana will continue to campaign to protect marine life and habitats and advance transparent, sustainable fishing practices that benefit all Europeans and the world’s oceans.
