World’s largest shark conference is set to begin in Sri Lanka next week – Image for illustrative purposes only (Image credits: Pixabay)
Colombo, Sri Lanka — Researchers and conservationists from across the globe prepare to converge on this coastal capital for Sharks International 2026, the premier event dedicated exclusively to sharks and rays. Scheduled for May 4-8, the conference marks the first time this quadrennial summit has come to Asia, spotlighting the region’s critical role in marine ecosystems. With more than a third of shark and ray species facing extinction risks, organizers emphasize the need for unified action amid mounting pressures from overfishing and habitat degradation.
A Milestone Gathering in a Key Marine Region
The Sharks International conference has long served as the world’s largest forum for elasmobranch science, drawing experts every four years to share findings and strategies. Past editions took place in Australia in 2010, South Africa in 2014, Brazil in 2018, and Spain in 2022. This year’s shift to Colombo underscores Asia’s rising prominence in global shark conservation efforts.
Sri Lanka’s location in the Indian Ocean positions it perfectly for these discussions. The waters here represent both a hotspot of marine biodiversity and one of the most intensely fished areas for sharks worldwide. Organizers view the event as a chance to address region-specific challenges while informing broader international policies.
The Growing Crisis Driving Urgent Action
Overfishing, habitat destruction, and lax enforcement have pushed more than one-third of shark and ray species toward extinction, according to conservation data highlighted by conference planners. Bycatch in industrial fisheries exacerbates the decline, ensnaring these animals unintentionally in vast fishing operations. Population drops continue despite growing awareness, prompting calls for stronger global measures.
Daniel Fernando, co-founder and director of the fisheries and policy program at Blue Resources Trust, described the timing as crucial. “The Sri Lanka meeting is considered particularly significant because the Indian Ocean is both a biodiversity hotspot and one of the world’s most heavily exploited shark fishing regions,” he stated. His organization leads the local hosting efforts, backed by international partners.
Key Players and Focus Areas for SI2026
The conference unites a diverse group of attendees, including scientists, policymakers, fisheries managers, and practitioners from dozens of countries. Sessions will delve into halting population declines, minimizing bycatch, and bolstering enforcement of protective regulations. Participants aim to forge collaborations that translate research into real-world protections.
Discussions extend beyond immediate threats to long-term strategies, such as sustainable fisheries management and habitat restoration. The event’s structure encourages cross-disciplinary exchanges, from field data analysis to policy recommendations. Organizers expect breakthroughs in understanding regional dynamics that could influence future conservation frameworks worldwide.
With Asia’s fisheries expanding rapidly, the summit provides a platform to integrate local knowledge with global expertise. Extended workshops and plenaries will allow deeper dives into emerging issues, making this edition particularly comprehensive.
Building Momentum for Global Change
Blue Resources Trust, a Colombo-based group, spearheads the logistics with support from various international bodies. Their involvement ensures the conference resonates with on-the-ground realities in Sri Lanka and beyond. Fernando’s leadership highlights how local initiatives can amplify worldwide impact.
As delegates arrive next week, the event stands poised to catalyze commitments amid a precarious moment for ocean life. Strengthening ties between science and policy could prove pivotal in reversing trends for these vital predators.
What to Watch at Sharks International 2026:
- Strategies to cut bycatch in high-seas fisheries.
- Updates on Indian Ocean biodiversity assessments.
- Policy pledges for endangered species protection.
- Collaborative plans bridging Asia with other regions.
The outcomes from Colombo could ripple through marine conservation for years, offering hope that coordinated efforts might yet secure a future for sharks and rays in threatened seas.
