The European Elasmobranch Association Conference 2024 to be held in Greece for the first time

Thursday 17th October 2024

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iSea proudly announces that the European Elasmobranch Association (EEA) 2024 Conference will be held in Thessaloniki from 21st to 24th October. This biggest shark and ray research event will bring together shark experts, researchers, and key stakeholders from around the globe, all united by a shared passion for the conservation of sharks, rays, and chimaeras.

The EEA Annual Conference serves as a vital platform for scientists and conservationists working to protect these fascinating marine species. This year, participants from across Europe, the Mediterranean, and beyond, will gather under the topic, "Stronger Collaboration for Better Conservation".

The 2024 conference aims to foster:

• greater interdisciplinary collaboration, involving experienced scientists, conservationists, and stakeholders from diverse fields of elasmobranch research,
• enhanced opportunities for early-career researchers, allowing them to network with seasoned professionals and showcase their latest findings, and
• increased representation from underrepresented regions, such as the Balkans, Eastern Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East, where data and resources on shark and ray conservation are often limited.

To drive impactful change in shark and ray conservation, this year’s event will feature a dynamic agenda, including workshops, panel discussions, and keynote addresses which are designed to build on the conference’s core values of diversity, equity, and community.

Attendees will have the chance to meet and hear from leading experts spanning South and North Europe, the USA, and the UAE. The topics will range from the biology and ecology of sharks, rays, and chimaeras to the socioeconomic importance of shark fisheries and the latest policy frameworks and public engagement strategies aimed at boosting conservation efforts.

Ioannis Giovos, President of the European Elasmobranch Association, emphasized the significance of this year’s gathering: "This year, Thessaloniki will become the heart of marine conservation, bringing together scientists, conservationists, and marine enthusiasts. The EEA Conference 2024 offers a unique opportunity for knowledge-sharing and collaboration, uniting professionals from across the globe to tackle the challenges facing sharks and rays. We look forward to welcoming everyone to this incredible event!"

The European Elasmobranch Association Conference 2024 is organized under the auspices of the Region of Central Macedonia and the Municipality of Thessaloniki. Save Our Seas Foundation proudly supports the event, which is sponsored by: Innovasea, TSIKRIKONIS Winery, Rainbow Waters and ELTA 90 MGR.