BRIDGES Days 2026 - Scientific Progress Across BRIDGES Study Sites 

📍 Place : L'Hermitage-Les-Bains, La Réunion

Introducing BRIDGES

BRIDGES - Fisheries and Biodiversity in the Western Indian Ocean - is an interdisciplinary research program (2024-2034) that brings together over 200 researchers to co-construct solutions for sustainable and equitable fisheries and biodiversity conservation in the Southwest Indian Ocean.

In the face of global changes that are exacerbating pressure on fishery resources, BRIDGES relies on close collaboration between scientists, decision-makers, and users to design and connect spatialized management tools (e.g., Marine Protected Areas, other area-based effective conservation measures - OECM) to guarantee biodiversity conservation, food security, environmental justice, and peaceful resource management. 

Over a 10-year period, the program operates on a regional scale and at four coastal sites, employing a transdisciplinary research approach to drive change and generate impact. BRIDGES also supports the training of a new generation of ocean professionals through thematic training, doctoral networks, and integration into regional master's programs. Recognized by COP11 of the Nairobi Convention, BRIDGES aligns with the goal of protecting 30% of the world’s oceans by 2030.

BRIDGES Days presentation 

The BRIDGES Research Program is pleased to announce a two-day event dedicated to present and discuss the scientific progress achieved across the study sites in the Southwest Indian Ocean region.

These Days will bring together BRIDGES researchers, the Scientific Advisory Board (SAB), and partners from the study sites, to present the co-construction methodology deployed in 2026 at each site, review the scientific progress and discuss future perspectives. The tentative program is available on the website and will be updated as soon as further details become available.

The event will take place on 2 and 3 December 2026 at the Le Récif Hotel Conference room in L’Hermitage-les-Bains, La Réunion island, and will also be accessible remotely via videoconference. To ensure broad participation and foster inclusive discussions across the region, simultaneous interpretation will be provided in French, English, and Portuguese.

Tentative Programme of the BRIDGES Days

What is covered

Registration, including meals and cocktail reception, is fully covered by the BRIDGES program. Travel and accommodation remain at participants’ own expense.

Registration

Please fill out the form below to confirm your participation (in person or online), within the limit of available seats. For further information, do not hesitate to contact us: contact@bridges-wio.com

We look forward to welcoming you for two days of exchange, collaboration, and scientific synthesis on the BRIDGES work in the SWIO region.