The ‘High Seas’ Treaty on ocean conservation has now been ratified by 60 countries around the world, ensuring it will officially enter into force in early 2026.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen hailed the benchmark as “a historic step for our planet,” highlighting the power of multilateralism.
"The EU and its Member States remain committed to the swift and ambitious implementation of the agreement. And we call on more countries to join our movement for the universal protection of our ocean," she added.
European Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans Costas Kadis echoed the sentiment, describing the treaty’s entry into force as "a historic milestone for ocean governance".
The Cypriot commissioner stressed the EU’s leading role in the treaty, officially known as the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Agreement, adding that its coming into effect was paramount to preserving marine life and biodiversity “for generations to come".
It is also proof "of successful multilateral cooperation, showing that the world can come together and find solutions for the protection of the ocean," he said.
"With 60 ratifications achieved and the entry into force, the next critical step is universal ratification to unlock the agreement’s full potential in safeguarding marine ecosystems globally," added Kadis.
The agreement, negotiated under UN auspices, allows countries for the first time to establish large-scale marine protected areas (MPAs) in international waters, a crucial measure to meet the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework’s target of protecting 30% of the ocean by 2030.
It also introduces mandatory environmental impact assessments for economic activities – such as fishing, deep-sea mining, and shipping –in areas beyond national jurisdiction, ensuring that these activities do not harm fragile marine ecosystems.
One of the most innovative aspects of the treaty is its benefit-sharing mechanism for marine genetic resources (e.g., genetic material from marine species used in medicine or biotechnology). Developing countries will receive technological and financial support to participate equitably in the agreement’s implementation through capacity-building programs and technology transfer initiatives.
The treaty will enter into force 120 days after the 60th ratification, meaning in early 2026. However, as highlighted by the European Commission, achieving the global goal of protecting 30% of the ocean requires wider adoption by as many countries as possible.
The EU, under Commissioner Kadis, has already announced that it will continue pushing for "global ratification" of the treaty while strengthening funding to support developing nations.
"Without global cooperation, we cannot protect our oceans. This treaty is an opportunity to show that humanity can unite for the common good," said Kadis.
Source: CNA
