The concept of the 'blue economy,' which promotes sustainable development of ocean resources for economic benefit, is facing growing criticism from small-scale fishers. These communities, often the backbone of coastal economies, feel that the blue economy agenda, as currently implemented, is leading to their marginalization and exploitation rather than empowerment. Instead of the promised benefits of sustainable growth and conservation, they are experiencing increased competition from large industrial players, displacement from traditional fishing grounds, and a lack of equitable access to marine resources. The development of large-scale projects, such as offshore wind farms, industrial aquaculture, and deep-sea mining, often prioritized under the blue economy umbrella, can have detrimental impacts on the fragile marine ecosystems that small-scale fishers depend on. These projects can disrupt fish breeding grounds, alter marine habitats, and lead to pollution, ultimately reducing fish stocks available to traditional fishers. Furthermore, the economic gains from these ventures are often concentrated in the hands of large corporations, with little benefit trickling down to the local communities. This has fueled a demand for 'blue justice,' a concept that seeks to rebalance the scales and ensure that the benefits of ocean resources are shared equitably. Blue justice advocates for a more inclusive and rights-based approach to ocean governance. It emphasizes the need to recognize and protect the rights of small-scale fishers, Indigenous communities, and other coastal populations who have historically relied on the ocean for their livelihoods and cultural identity. This includes ensuring their meaningful participation in decision-making processes that affect their lives and the marine environment. It also calls for fair compensation for any negative impacts caused by blue economy projects and the protection of their traditional fishing rights. The movement for blue justice argues that true sustainability cannot be achieved without social equity and that the well-being of both people and the planet must be at the forefront of ocean development. It is a call to move beyond the dominant economic paradigm and embrace a more just and equitable future for all who depend on the ocean, ensuring that its resources are managed in a way that benefits everyone, not just a select few. The frustration stems from a perceived disconnect between the rhetoric of sustainability and the reality on the ground, where traditional livelihoods are often threatened by the very initiatives meant to promote a 'blue' future.