For our 10th episode, Voice of Commons responds to questions from our listeners about the origins of the project and UNLESS. We share a special live conversation held during the vernissage of the Venice Biennale between architects Giulia Foscari and Eva Franch i Gilabert. The dialogue frames the urgency, structure, and ambition of Voice of Commons and explores the project’s multi-scalar planetary mobilisation from high-level advocacy to grassroots participation. They also reflect on the transformation of Scarpa’s 1952 Biennale ticket office into the Planetary Embassy – a space of democratic in-betweenness broadcasting voices from Indigenous communities and the more-than-human world. From political imagination to spatial activism, the dialogue traces how Voice of Commons amplifies unheard voices and catalyzes systemic change. 

Giulia Foscari is an architect, curator and activist who practised in Asia, the Americas and Europe. She is the founder of UNA/UNLESS. UNLESS is a nonprofit agency for change advocating for the Global Commons; UNA is an international architecture practice. Her work with UNLESS includes Antarctic Resolution, recipient of multiple awards including the European Commission’s S+T+ARTS Grand Prize. With UNLESS, she launched Voice of Commons as a Special Project of the 2025 Venice Architecture Biennale. Giulia has taught at the University of Hong Kong and the Architectural Association in London. She is the author of Elements of Venice and editor of Antarctic Resolution (both Lars Müller Publishers). She previously worked with Rem Koolhaas and Zaha Hadid, and serves on several boards including ASOC. She was born at 338 parts per million of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.

Eva Franch i Gilabert is an architect, curator, educator, and researcher, widely known for her radical and visionary approach to architecture, cultural institutions, and public engagement. She is the co-founder of FAST - a new platform for investigation and research in art, architecture and technology; she is also professor at UMPRUM and co-founder of MODEL, Barcelona’s forward-thinking Architecture Festival. She previously served as Director of the Architectural Association School of Architecture in London and as Chief Curator at Storefront for Art and Architecture in New York City. Her diverse practice spans exhibitions, theoretical manifestos and public lectures that challenge entrenched boundaries of design, governance, and spatial politics. Eva is a member of the Voice of Commons Advisory Council. She was born at 335 parts per million carbon dioxide in the Atmosphere.

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What links the abyss of the deep sea to the southernmost ice shelves? Can open-source science protect Antarctica? And how urgent is the threat of deep-sea mining? In this episode of Voice of Commons host Giulia Foscari speaks with deep-sea biologist and polar explorer Antje Boetius. Broadcast just after the United Nations Ocean Conference in Nice and ahead of the Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meetings in Milan, In this episode, we speak with her about the critical role of Antarctica as a planetary climate regulator, the commitment of open science through Antarctica InSync, the hidden carbon cycle of the deep sea, the threats of deep-sea mining, and the urgency of marine protection. As President of MBARI and former Director of the Alfred Wegener Institute, Boetius offers urgent insight into the living systems that sustain us and why we must act now to defend both the Ocean and Antarctica.

Antje Boetius is a marine biologist recognized for her research on deep-sea ecosystems and climate change. She is the President and CEO of the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute, Professor at the University of Bremen and former Director of the Alfred Wegener Institute. Antje led over fifty polar and marine international expeditions and is a strong advocate for ocean conservation and climate action. Her numerous awards include the Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz Prize and the German Environmental Award. She is involved with the Max Planck Society and the German National Academy Leopoldina, and is an official Advisor of Voice of Commons. Antje was born at 322 parts per million carbon dioxide in the Atmosphere. 

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What if a race could help rewrite the rules of ocean governance? In this episode of Voice of Commons, broadcast from the United Nations Ocean Conference in Nice, host Giulia Foscari speaks with Richard Brisius, President of The Ocean Race, about how one of the world’s toughest sailing competitions has evolved into a platform for ocean science, literacy, and rights. Together, they explore the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the Ocean, the symbolism of the Nature’s Baton — recently passed by Ambassador Peter Thomson to the Mayor of Nice during the Ocean Rise & Coastal Cities Coalition Summit — and the growing call for a Universal Declaration of Ocean Rights. From microplastic sampling to fair play on the high seas, this is a conversation about sport, stewardship, and turning the Ocean’s tide.

Richard Brisius is a passionate Ocean advocate dedicated to the restoration and sustainability of our planet's marine ecosystems. With over 35 years of Round the World Racing experience, he is the President of The Ocean Race — the world’s toughest team challenge at sea, now transformed into a global platform for ocean science, diplomacy, and rights. He is the co-founder of the Relay4Nature with United Nations Special Envoy for the Ocean Peter Thomson and is a member of the World Economic Forum’s Friends of Ocean Action. Under his leadership, The Ocean Race launched the Charter of Ocean Rights calling for a “Universal Declaration of Ocean Rights”. He previously served as CEO of Sweden’s 2026 Olympic bid. Richard Brisius was born at 314 parts per million carbon dioxide in the Atmosphere.

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As the world gathers in Nice for the third United Nations Ocean Conference, Voice of Commons host Giulia Foscari sits down with Peter Thomson, United Nations Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for the Ocean, for a wide-ranging and urgent conversation on the state of our blue Planet. 

From the long-awaited ratification of the High Seas Treaty to the global effort to achieve the 30x30 target, and the critical delivery of SDG14 — Life Below Water — this episode traces the decisions and alliances needed to turn international commitments into real protection for the Ocean. Recorded from the Planetary Embassy in Venice, the dialogue navigates the science-policy interface, the architecture of enforceable governance, and the moral imperative of ocean justice — underscoring what success at UNOC must mean for frontline communities facing sea-level rise, acidification, and ecological collapse. From equity for Small Island Developing States to the need for systemic transformation, this is a vital listen on the coalitions that could still turn the tide.

🌊 Stay tuned until the end, as Ambassador Peter Thomson shares the books and poems that have shaped and inspired his lifelong relationship with the Ocean — a personal reflection for the next generation of Ocean stewards.

At UNLESS we take the opportunity to thank the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development for endorsing Voice of Commons as a Decade Activity!

Peter Thomson is a Fijian diplomat who is currently serving as the United Nations Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for the Ocean, the first person to be appointed to this position. He held the office of President of the General Assembly of the United Nations (2016-1017); he was Fiji’s Permanent Representative to the UN (2010-2016), President of the Assembly of the Institute Seabed Authority’s in 2011, and President of the Executive Board of UNDP, UNFPA and UNOPS (2014-2015). He co-chairs the World Economic Forum’s Friends of Ocean Action and supports the High-Level Panel for Sustainable Ocean Economy, and is an officer of the Order of Fiji. Peter Thomson was born at 310 parts per million carbon dioxide in the Atmosphere. 

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What can satellites teach us about the state of the planet — and the future of planetary governance? In this episode of Voice of Commons, host Giulia Foscari speaks with Simonetta Cheli –⁠ Director of Earth Observation at the European Space Agency (ESA), Head of ESA-ESRIN in Frascati and Advisor of Voice of Commons –⁠ about the power of satellites to monitor Earth’s systems and generate anticipatory intelligence. We explore the Copernicus programme, Digital Twins of the Earth, and the essential climate variables that shape global policy –⁠ from melting ice to rising seas. Along the way, we confront the growing challenges of orbital debris, data governance, and the urgent need to treat both Outer Space and Data as Commons. 

So buckle up. We’re heading from orbit to ocean, pixels to policy, in search of new ways to govern –⁠ and protect –⁠ our shared home: Spaceship Earth!

We take the opportunity to thank the European Space Agency for offering Patronage to UNLESS’ project: Voice of Commons!

Simonetta Cheli is a leading expert in Earth Observation and Space policy, serving as Director of Earth Observation Programmes at the European Space Agency (ESA) and Head of ESA-ESRIN in Frascati, Italy. She is a member of the ESA Executive Board and is accountable for formulating the ESA strategy for the Earth Observation (EO) sector, managing the development of EO satellites, in-orbit Mission operations, ground segment data distribution and archiving, science applications and projects, while overseeing a team of 900+ staff across six ESA sites. She actively engages with worldwide stakeholders, managing major partnership programmes like Copernicus and meteorological programmes with the European Commission and EUMETSAT. Simonetta is a Member of the Voice of Commons Advisory Council. Simonetta Cheli was born at 319 parts per million carbon dioxide in the Atmosphere. 

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What if nature had legal rights? In this episode of Voice of Commons, host Giulia Foscari speaks with environmental lawyer Cormac Cullinan - founder of the Global Alliance for the Rights of Nature and the Wild Law Institute - about rethinking legal systems to recognize nature as a rights-bearing entity. From the courtroom to the cryosphere, we explore how the Rights of Nature movement is reshaping global environmental governance, and what justice could look like for the Global Commons -including Antarctica, the Ocean, the Atmosphere, and Outer Space.

In closing, we share a powerful reflection from ecologist and activist Carola Rackete - Member of the European Parliament and of the Antarctic Rights Alliance - recorded live at the launch of the Antarctica Declaration at the Voice of Commons Planetary Embassy during the Venice Biennale Vernissage.

Cormac Cullinan is an environmental attorney and leading advocate for the Rights of Nature. He is the founder of the Global Alliance for the Rights of Nature (GARN), co-founder of the Biodiversity Law Centre, and Director of the Wild Law Institute. He has advised governments and drafted environmental legislation around the world, including the landmark Universal Declaration of the Rights of Mother Earth. His influential book Wild Law: A Manifesto for Earth Justice helped pioneer the field of Earth Jurisprudence and has inspired a global movement. He has served as a judge on the International Rights of Nature Tribunal and received both the Nick Steele Award for South African Environmentalist of the Year and the Ecologic Lifetime Achievement Award. 

Cormac Cullinan was born when atmospheric CO₂ levels were at 317 parts per million.

Carola Rackete is an ecologist, activist, and merchant mariner with a master’s degree in nature conservation. She is a Member of the European Parliament and campaigns for environmental and social justice. Carola has spent nine seasons in Antarctica, working with German and British polar research institutes and with Greenpeace, and is a leading advocate for long-term protection of the continent. She initiated the Antarctica Declaration and is a member of the Antarctic Rights Alliance.

She has volunteered with NGOs supporting refugees at sea and has been a prominent voice in movements for climate justice, civil disobedience, and systemic change. She is the author of The Time to Act Is Now and has published widely, including the article Is the Antarctic Treaty a Cause for Celebration?

Carola Rackete was born when atmospheric CO₂ levels had reached 351 parts per million.

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Christiana Figueres — former Executive Secretary of the UNFCCC, architect of the Paris Agreement, and internationally recognized Costa Rican climate leader — joins host Giulia Foscari for an urgent and inspiring conversation from Voice of Commons’ Planetary Embassy, in Venice. Together, they explore the architecture of planetary governance, the legacy and future of the Paris Agreement, and the bold shifts needed to safeguard the Global Commons ahead of COP30 in the Amazon. Drawing on her vision of collaboration, courage, and stubborn optimism, Christiana calls for reimagining governance beyond borders, defending biodiversity, and advancing intergenerational justice. A powerful episode on choosing a just future for All-kind in this decisive decade for our planet.

Christiana Figueres is an internationally recognized leader on climate change. She served as Executive Secretary of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (2010–2016), where she oversaw the delivery of the historic Paris Agreement. She is the co-founder of Global Optimism, co-host of the podcast Outrage & Optimism, and co-author of the bestselling book The Future We Choose. Previously, she represented Costa Rica in the international climate negotiations, bringing a unique perspective to global climate diplomacy. Christiana Figueres remains a driving force for rapid action toward a sustainable and equitable future. She was born at 314 parts per million carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.

CREDITS

Christiana Figueres hosted by Giulia Foscari.

Broadcast from the Voice of Commons’ Planetary Embassy, in Venice. 

Voice of Commons, a project by the agency for change UNLESS.

Launched as a Special Project of the 19th Venice Architecture Exhibition of La Biennale di Venezia, under the Patronage of UNESCO, with the recognition of The European Space Agency and endorsed by United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development.

Sound Identity UNLESS & PASE Platform, in collaboration with Limn.AI

Sound Production PASE Platform

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The climate crisis is a human rights crisis — and addressing it demands urgent, systemic change. South African activist Kumi Naidoo — President of the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty Initiative and former Secretary-General of Greenpeace International and Amnesty International — joins host Giulia Foscari for a galvanizing conversation on justice, activism, and the future of our Global Commons. Reflecting on decades of campaigning, from standing up to apartheid to defending Antarctica and the Ocean, Kumi calls for dismantling fossil fuel addiction, amplifying the voices of the global majority, and embracing the transformative power of artivism. As the Venice Biennale Vernissage draws to a close, we are reminded that art and architecture can — and must — be a catalyst for hope, resistance, and justice.

Kumi Naidoo is a human rights and environmental justice activist. He is President of the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty Initiative and Payne Distinguished Lecturer at Stanford University. He formerly served as Secretary-General of Amnesty International (2018–2020) and was the first person from the Global South to lead Greenpeace International (2009–2015). He serves as Global Ambassador for Africans Rising for Justice, Peace, and Dignity, and as an advisor to the Community Arts Network. Together with his family, he established the Riky Rick Foundation for the Promotion of Artivism, building on the legacy of South African artist Rikhado Makhado. Kumi Naidoo is also the author of the award-winning Letters to My Mother: The Makings of a Troublemaker and hosts the podcast Power, People and Planet. He was born at 320 parts per million carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.

CREDITS

Kumi Naidoo hosted by Giulia Foscari.

Broadcast from the Voice of Commons’ Planetary Embassy, in Venice. 

Voice of Commons, a project by the agency for change UNLESS.

Launched as a Special Project of the 19th Venice Architecture Exhibition of La Biennale di Venezia, under the Patronage of UNESCO, with the recognition of The European Space Agency and endorsed by United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development.

Sound Identity UNLESS & PASE Platform, in collaboration with Limn.AI

Sound Production PASE Platform

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THE OCEAN'S VOICE

A Call to Protect our Ocean Commons.

"Her Deepness" Sylvia Earle — legendary oceanographer, President of Mission Blue, Explorer-in-Residence at the National Geographic Society, and Voice of Commons Ambassador — joins host Giulia Foscari for a powerful conversation from the Venice Biennale Vernissage. Drawing on thousands of hours beneath the Ocean surface, Sylvia transports us into a vibrant interspecies world to which we all belong, confronting the threats of overfishing, deep-sea mining, and ocean acidification. Reflecting on ocean governance, the High Seas Treaty, and the Global Commons, she reminds us that, with unprecedented knowledge of Earth's interconnected systems, we have the best chance — and the urgent responsibility — to act. From advancing marine protected areas to fostering Hope Spots, Sylvia calls for bold action to safeguard the blue heart of our planet for future generations.

Sylvia Earle is an oceanographer, explorer, and lecturer, recognized for her pioneering research and leadership in ocean conservation. She is President and Chairman of Mission Blue and The Sylvia Earle Alliance, and serves as Explorer in Residence at the National Geographic Society. She formerly served as Chief Scientist of the United States National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (1990-1992). Her contributions have been honored with more than 150 awards and honors, including being named "Her Deepness" by The New Yorker and The New York Times, "Living Legend" by the Library of Congress, and the first "Hero for the Planet" by Time Magazine. Sylvia Earle is also a Voice of Commons Ambassador. She was born at 311 parts per million carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.

CREDITS

Sylvia Earle hosted by Giulia Foscari.

Broadcast from the Voice of Commons’ Planetary Embassy, in Venice. 

Voice of Commons, a project by the agency for change UNLESS.

Launched as a Special Project of the 19th Venice Architecture Exhibition of La Biennale di Venezia, under the Patronage of UNESCO, with the recognition of The European Space Agency and endorsed by United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development.

Sound Identity UNLESS & PASE Platform, in collaboration with Limn.AI

Sound Production PASE Platform

LISTEN FROM VENICE, FROM ORBIT, AND BEYOND.

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PLANETARY BOUNDARIES

Securing a Safe and Just Operating Space for the Global Commons.

In the inaugural episode of Voice of Commons, launched by UNLESS from the Planetary Embassy at the Venice Biennale, Earth system scientist and Voice of Commons Ambassador Johan Rockström joins host Giulia Foscari to explore the vital role of the Global Commons Antarctica, the Ocean, the Atmosphere, and Outer Space – in sustaining life on Earth. Johan reveals how crossing Planetary Boundaries and triggering Tipping Points risks unravelling the very conditions that make life possible. Together, they make the case for rethinking stewardship and governance before it's too late – and reflect on what it will take to secure a just and safe operating space for All-kind. A powerful conversation with one of the leading voices shaping our understanding of Earth's resilience – and the consequences of pushing it too far.

Johan Rockström is an internationally recognized scientist on global sustainability issues and led the development of the Planetary Boundaries framework for human development in the current era of rapid global change. Johan is the Director of the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research, Professor in Earth System Science at the University of Potsdam and Professor in Water Systems and Global Sustainability at the Stockholm University. He is the Chair of the Earth Commission, the Earth League, Chief Scientist of Conservation International, and an elected member of the German Academy of Sciences Leopoldina and the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences, and a Voice of Commons Ambassador. Johan was born at 320 parts per million carbon dioxide in the Atmosphere.

CREDITS

Johan Rockstrom hosted by Giulia Foscari.

Broadcast from the Voice of Commons’ Planetary Embassy, in Venice. 

Voice of Commons, a project by the agency for change UNLESS.

Launched as a Special Project of the 19th Venice Architecture Exhibition of La Biennale di Venezia, under the Patronage of UNESCO, with the recognition of The European Space Agency and endorsed by United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development.

Sound Identity UNLESS & PASE Platform, in collaboration with Limn.AI

Sound Production PASE Platform

LISTEN FROM VENICE, FROM ORBIT, AND BEYOND.

Sign the Petition voice-of-commons.org/petition

Speak Up for the Commons by submitting voice-of-commons.org/speakup

For more information voice-of-commons.org

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