High Seas Treaty Ratified at UN Oceans Conference
The United Nations Oceans Conference (UNOC) recently concluded in France. This event marked milestone in global marine conservation. The conference focused on the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) agreement, commonly referred to as the High Seas Treaty. This treaty aims to protect oceans and establish marine-protected areas in international waters.
UN Oceans Conference
The UNOC is a platform for countries to discuss and accelerate action on ocean conservation. The third edition of the conference sought to address the urgent need for marine protection. It aimed to prevent over-fishing and regulate deep-sea mining in areas not owned by any nation. The conference’s goals align with the broader Convention on Biological Diversity, which commits nations to protect 30% of marine and coastal areas by 2030.
Significance of the BBNJ Agreement
The BBNJ agreement is crucial for conserving marine biodiversity. It requires 60 ratifications to become legally binding. As of the conference’s conclusion, 56 countries had ratified the treaty. This agreement focuses on creating marine protected areas beyond national jurisdiction, conducting environmental impact assessments, and regulating marine genetic resources. It also emphasises capacity-building for developing nations to enhance their ocean governance.
Challenges to Ratification
Despite the positive developments, several challenges remain. The most contentious issue is the sharing of benefits derived from marine resources. The high seas host unique life-forms, and there is no consensus on how to distribute profits from their extraction. Environmental groups have raised concerns that without strict regulations, the oceans may face irreversible damage.
Achievements of the UNOC
The UNOC yielded a number of voluntary commitments from various nations. The European Commission pledged 1 billion euros for ocean conservation and sustainable fishing. French Polynesia announced plans to create the world’s largest marine protected area, covering five million square kilometres. New Zealand allocated over $52 million for ocean governance in the Pacific. Germany initiated a 100 million euro programme for recovering munitions from its seas. Additionally, a coalition of 37 countries launched the High Ambition Coalition for a Quiet Ocean to combat ocean noise pollution. Italy committed 6.5 million euros to enhance surveillance in marine protected areas. Canada contributed $9 million to improve resilience against climate change for Small Island Developing States. Spain pledged to establish five new marine protected areas, aiming to protect 25% of its marine territory.
Future Expectations
The UN expects to reach 70 ratifications for the BBNJ agreement by September. This would pave the way for the inaugural BBNJ Conference of Parties in late 2026. The ongoing commitment of nations to marine conservation will be critical for the future health of the oceans.
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