Protected Areas and Oceans Legal Advisor, Conservation International

Maria-Goreti Muavesi is an accomplished environmental lawyer with two decades of expertise in environmental law and policy, with a strong focus on the Pacific region. She currently serves as a Legal Advisor at Conservation International, supporting legal and policy frameworks for marine biodiversity, protected areas, and the implementation of international agreements such as the BBNJ Treaty. Previously, she was the Head Environmental Legal Officer at the IUCN Oceania Regional Office, where she also served in the office of the Regional Director in an acting capacity. She has led strategic operations to advance the environmental rule of law across the region, working closely with governments, regional bodies, and civil society. Her work includes promoting the implementation of environmental laws and supporting the development of legal frameworks at both national and regional levels to strengthen conservation and environmental protection. She also holds leadership roles in regional women’s and faith-based networks, contributing to community development and advocacy for social and environmental justice.

Maria-Goreti holds a Master of Fisheries Policy from the University of Wollongong and a Bachelor of Laws from the University of the South Pacific.