In a landmark decision, whales and dolphins have been recognized as “legal persons” in a new treaty formed by Indigenous leaders from the Pacific. This historic treaty, known as He Whakaputanga Moana, is a declaration that acknowledges these majestic creatures of the sea as legal entities, allowing humans to take legal action on their behalf.
In a groundbreaking initiative, Indigenous leaders from New Zealand, Tahiti, Tonga, and the Cook Islands have come together to sign a treaty granting legal personhood to whales. This historic move, led by the Hinemoana Halo Ocean Initiative, aims to provide whales with rights that include freedom of movement, natural behavior, and a healthy environment.
Tired of constantly battling to protect nature, Abi Ludwig, cofounder of the Olympia group Rights of Nature Initiative (RONI) said they’re “going on the offense.” “We’re at that point where nature has to fight back and we’re ready to take that on from the community level,” said Rachel Kurtz, president and cofounder of RONI. Kurtz and Ludwig are part of a growing movement to establish rights for nature to exist and thrive.