TerraMAR was a non-profit organization founded by Ghislaine Maxwell in 2012 with a stated mission of ocean conservation. Maxwell — herself the daughter of Robert Maxwell, a media mogul who owned a yacht — positioned herself as a marine conservationist and global ocean advocate.
What TerraMAR did: The organization promoted “citizenship of the high seas,” worked with the United Nations, produced educational materials about ocean health, and hosted events featuring prominent scientists and policymakers. Maxwell gave a TED talk through the organization in 2014.
The UN angle: TerraMAR gained consultative status with the United Nations. Maxwell cultivated a public image as an environmental philanthropist through the organization, appearing at legitimate international events.
Critics’ view: Investigators and journalists noted that TerraMAR provided Maxwell with:
- A legitimate public identity at a time when her name was becoming associated with Epstein
- Access to wealthy and powerful donors
- A platform at international gatherings where she could continue social networking
- A potential financial vehicle
The closure: TerraMAR abruptly shut down in 2019 when Epstein was arrested and the association between Maxwell and Epstein resurfaced in the media. The organization was dissolved without explanation.
At trial: The TerraMAR question was examined — particularly whether Maxwell used the organization to facilitate any trafficking activities or whether it was primarily a reputational cover. No direct operational link was proven, but the timing of its closure was seen as significant.