Sea Shepherd’s Faroe Islands Director, Valentina Crast, joined an expert panel on November 25, 2024, as part of the American Bar Association’s inaugural “Blue Crimes Webinar Series.” This session, titled “Legality of Dolphin and Whale Hunts,” examined the legal, ethical, and environmental implications of cetacean hunts worldwide. The event launched a three-part series addressing crimes impacting marine life, humans, and ecosystems.
Highlighting the Grindadráp in the Faroe Islands
Valentina brought her extensive experience leading campaigns to end whaling practices in the Faroe Islands, where grindadráp—the traditional hunting of pilot whales and white-sided dolphins—continues with government sanction. Representing Sea Shepherd, Valentina shed light on the on-the-ground challenges of combating these hunts and emphasized the importance of international legal frameworks, public awareness, and global collaboration.
As a key figure in the Stop the Grind Coalition, Valentina has also been instrumental in political strategy and investigations to push for change in the Faroese government’s stance on these inhumane practices.
Insights from the Expert Panel
The event also featured esteemed panelists:
- Dr. Zoi Aliozi: An international academic and lawyer specializing in climate justice and human rights.
- Dr. Lori Marino: A neuroscientist and President of the Whale Sanctuary Project.
Together, the panel explored the threats facing dolphins and whales globally, presenting strategies for advocacy and actionable solutions to reduce the suffering of these intelligent marine mammals.
Watch the Full Event
The ABA ILS International Criminal Law Committee and ILS International Animal Law Committee present the first of a three-part webinar series on Blue Crimes impacting aquatic animals, humans and our environment.
For those who missed the live session, the full recording is available to view here. This webinar provides valuable insights for anyone passionate about ending inhumane cetacean hunts and protecting marine life worldwide.
Join Sea Shepherd in Defending Marine Life
Sea Shepherd remains on the front lines, confronting destructive practices like the grindadráp and defending vulnerable marine species. Our work is made possible by supporters like you, powering campaigns and enabling us to expose illegal activities, rescue marine wildlife, and drive lasting change.
Help us continue this vital mission—your support makes a difference.
