Summer is the time of year when most people flock to beaches and enjoy the sea, making it the perfect moment to talk about situations that call for caution — but also about those rooted in myths. Many people harbor a deep-seated fear of sharks, often shaped by prejudice, ignorance, and films that portray them as bloodthirsty killers. But is that fear really justified?
Sharks are far from the terrifying creatures of movie scripts — they are a crucial part of healthy and sustainable marine ecosystems. In this blog, I will share the story of one of the world’s most dedicated advocates for the truth about sharks and their protection.
Lewis Pugh, renowned ocean swimmer and activist, took to the water in May this year with a clear mission — to change the way people perceive sharks and to raise awareness about their endangerment. The timing was no coincidence: this year marks the 50th anniversary of the release of Jaws, the American thriller that shaped generations of fear by depicting the great white shark as a ruthless killer. At the very location where the movie was filmed — around Martha’s Vineyard — Lewis swam 96 kilometers as part of The Shark Swim, an initiative under his foundation’s broader campaign.
The mission of the foundation is to protect marine predators and promote the creation of more marine protected areas — which currently cover less than three percent of the world’s oceans.
Over the course of twelve days, in cold waters and challenging weather conditions, Lewis delivered a powerful message: sharks are not our enemies, but our allies in preserving the oceans.
Data from his foundation’s official website are alarming — around 275,000 sharks are killed every day worldwide, mostly due to excessive and unregulated fishing. That’s why, both before and during the campaign, Lewis engaged with scientists, local authorities, media, and the general public — to draw attention to this urgent issue.
It is essential that we talk, especially with younger generations, about sharks as beneficial and vital creatures — not as threats. We must foster a generation that grows up not with myths and fears, but with understanding and respect for nature.
Of course, sharks can be dangerous — like any wild animal when humans enter their immediate surroundings. But we must remember that when we enter the sea, we are the ones stepping onto their territory. This is why it’s crucial to act responsibly — by informing ourselves about their presence in the area we are visiting, respecting local safety guidelines, and understanding their role in the ecosystem.
Katarina Vuinac
