Lobbying Policy
Our Commitment
Ocean Orchestra works to support healthier oceans and sustainable fishing through our participation in industry initiatives and groups such as GDST. This policy guides how we engage with policymakers, government officials and industry organisations.
This policy applies to all employees, directors, contractors, and anyone representing Ocean Orchestra in public policy matters.
When and Why We Lobby
We engage in lobbying only when it contributes to positive social or environmental outcomes.
We will advocate for sustainable fisheries and healthy marine ecosystems, support transparency and traceability in seafood supply chains, promote policies that strengthen fishing communities, and push for stronger environmental protection and resilience.
We will not lobby for anything that undermines environmental protection, human rights or the public interest.
All our policy positions are grounded in peer-reviewed research, credible data and expert input, including advice from industry partners. We keep our positions current and update them when new evidence emerges.
Working with Industry Groups
We engage in lobbying primarily through industry groups and collaborative initiatives, including organisations such as GDST, to advance positive social and environmental outcomes in the global fishing and marine sector.
Before joining or funding any organisation, we assess whether its policy positions align with our mission and this policy, and we review its transparency, governance, and lobbying practices. We review our memberships at least annually and withdraw from any organisation whose activities or positions conflict with this policy.
Political Contributions
We do not make financial contributions to political parties, candidates or elected officials. The Board may approve an exception only if it directly aligns with our mission, and any such contribution will be disclosed publicly.
We do not provide services, data, technology or staff time to political actors unless the contribution is strictly non-partisan, aligned with our mission, and approved in writing by the Founders and documented.
Anti-Corruption
We have zero tolerance for bribery and corruption. We comply with all applicable anti-bribery and anti-corruption legislation, including the UK Bribery Act 2010, which prohibits offering, promising, giving, requesting or accepting a bribe, including bribery of foreign public officials and failure to prevent bribery. We maintain accurate records of all lobbying expenses and meetings. Any concerns can be raised through our grievance and whistleblowing processes.
Governance
The Board of Directors reviews and approves this policy at least every two years. The Founders are accountable for the day-to-day management of this policy.
How We Manage Risks
We log all meetings and communications with public officials. We review risks annually and monitor public statements for consistency with evidence. Clear approval processes are in place for all lobbying activity, with escalation procedures for high-risk engagements.
Raising Concerns
Anyone, including employees, partners, suppliers and members of the public, can raise concerns about our lobbying practices. All concerns are treated confidentially and fairly through our grievance and whistleblowing processes.
Concerns can be raised through our website or directly to the Founders.