Safe working environments are key to improving inclusion in open-ocean, deep-ocean, and high-seas science

With growing acknowledgement of the need to address disparities in capacities to undertake open-ocean, deep ocean, and high-seas scientific research, numerous global initiatives have been launched to make ocean science more inclusive, equitable, and accessible. Participation in offshore research cruises has emerged as a primary activity to achieve this. While admirable, the experiences of underrepresented groups in offshore science show that there needs to be a step change in approaches to ensure safety and inclusion. Instances where discrimination, bullying, harassment, and assault occur do not build capacity; instead, they perpetuate the fundamental inequities that should be addressed. Yet we do not hear about these experiences, and there is a need for conversations about how to ensure safe working spaces at sea. We propose steps to support inclusion and safety for underrepresented groups within offshore science.

Automated summary

With the recognition of disparities in the capacity for ocean science research, global initiatives have been launched to make it more inclusive and equitable. Offshore research cruises have emerged as a primary activity to achieve this goal, but the experiences of underrepresented groups show a need for a change in approach to ensure their safety and inclusion.