Nearly two-thirds of Earth's oceans remain unprotected from overexploitation, facing threats like pollution and climate change. The High Seas Treaty, formally the BBNJ Agreement, addresses this gap after years of global negotiations. It enters force on January 17, 2026, following Morocco's pivotal ratification.
What Is the High Seas Treaty?
The treaty establishes a legal framework under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea for conserving marine biodiversity beyond national jurisdictions. It covers areas making up half the planet's surface, where fragmented rules have long hindered effective management.
This agreement, adopted in June 2023, opened for signatures in September that year and will close them in September 2025. According to the UN, it aims to promote sustainable use while ensuring equitable benefit-sharing from ocean resources.
Path to Ratification and Entry Into Force
Negotiations spanned over two decades, culminating in the treaty's final text after intense UN sessions. The push gained momentum as biodiversity loss accelerated, with scientists warning of irreversible damage to marine ecosystems.
Morocco became the 60th nation to ratify on September 19, 2025, triggering the 120-day countdown to activation. As noted by the High Seas Alliance, this milestone reflects diverse global cooperation, from island states to major powers.
Earlier ratifications by countries like Palau and Chile set the stage, but the recent wave during the UN Ocean Conference in June 2025 accelerated progress. The EU pledged financial support to aid developing nations in implementation.
Key Provisions of the Treaty
Marine Protected Areas
The pact enables the creation of marine protected areas in international waters, a first for global ocean governance. States can propose these zones, followed by scientific reviews and consultations before approval.
This mechanism addresses gaps in current protections, where less than 1% of high seas enjoy full safeguards. Environmental groups emphasize its role in meeting the 30% ocean protection target by 2030.
Benefit-Sharing from Genetic Resources
Nations must share benefits from marine genetic resources, including monetary gains from discoveries like new medicines. A dedicated committee will oversee fair distribution, prioritizing developing countries.
According to WWF, this provision marks a turning point, ensuring high seas resources benefit humanity equitably rather than a few entities. It fosters international collaboration in biotechnology.
Environmental Impact Assessments
The treaty mandates assessments for activities that could harm high seas biodiversity. This includes deep-sea mining and fishing, with transparent processes to mitigate risks.
Analysts from Pew Charitable Trusts highlight how this strengthens accountability, preventing unchecked exploitation in vulnerable areas.
Capacity Building and Technology Transfer
Developed nations commit to aiding others through technology transfers and training. This builds global capacity for monitoring and enforcing treaty rules.
A separate committee will manage these efforts, addressing disparities in ocean research capabilities.
Implications for Global Marine Conservation
The treaty's activation could slow biodiversity decline, as high seas host critical habitats for species like whales and tuna. It integrates with existing frameworks without undermining them, per UN guidelines.
Climate resilience improves, since healthy oceans absorb vast amounts of carbon. Reports from the BBC underscore its timeliness amid warming waters and acidification.
Challenges remain, including funding for enforcement and resolving disputes over resource rights. Experts urge swift preparation for the first Conference of Parties post-entry.
Economic and Scientific Opportunities
Sustainable practices may unlock new economic avenues, such as eco-tourism and bioprospecting. The agreement encourages data sharing to advance marine science globally.
According to Bloomberg Ocean Initiative, investments in treaty implementation could yield long-term gains in fisheries and pharmaceuticals.
Challenges and Future Outlook
Ratification by more nations is essential for universal adherence, with over 90 signatories but only 60 ratifiers so far. Landlocked countries also play a role, given shared ocean benefits.
Implementation requires robust institutions, as discussed in ongoing UN preparatory commissions. The next session in August 2025 will refine operational details.
This treaty's relevance lies in uniting nations against ocean degradation, offering a blueprint for collective environmental stewardship. It empowers actionable steps toward healthier seas for future generations.
