Looking for Rights of Nature in the Lagoon of Venice A Cultural-Historical Argument to Welcome Nature in European Politics

This essay examines the historical perception of the Venice Lagoon as a political agent, its cultural resonance, and the recent Declaration of the Rights of the Venice Lagoon (2025). The essay takes its first steps from the recent campaign for the Rights of the Lagoon, challenging the dominant narrative that sees Rights of Nature (RoN) as incompatible with European legal and cultural traditions. Drawing on four pillars (ecosystem services, historical tradition, cultural relevance and sentimental connection) this work aims to reconcile RoN with Europe’s diverse heritage, using the Lagoon’s long-standing agency and recognition as a case study.