From Paper to Protection: PrepCom 2 Advances Preparation for Implementation of the BBNJ Agreement
Two years after its adoption, the High Seas Treaty stands on the brink of entering into force. Formally known as the BBNJ Agreement (Agreement on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction), it has secured 52 of the required 60 ratifications, putting the finish line clearly in sight. With success so close, the focus is shifting from securing ratifications to ensuring robust implementation.
A decisive step towards implementation
From 18–29 August 2025, governments from across the globe are meeting at the United Nations Headquarters in New York for the second session of the BBNJ Preparatory Commission (PrepCom). This session marks a decisive step towards operationalising the BBNJ Agreement, a landmark treaty to protect marine life in areas beyond national jurisdiction, which make up nearly half our planet and are vital for climate regulation, global food security, and unique biodiversity.
A treaty for the global commons
To date, 139 countries have signed the Agreement, and 52 countries, along with the European Union, have ratified it, with a strong push for ratification during the recent third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC 3). The Agreement will enter into force once 60 ratifications are achieved and addresses a significant governance gap by introducing measures such as marine protected areas, environmental impact assessments, and the fair sharing of benefits from marine genetic resources. It also strengthens capacity-building and technology transfer, enabling all nations — whether coastal or landlocked — to participate fully in ocean governance.
The critical role of the PrepCom
The PrepCom is more than a procedural formality; it is the vital bridge between adoption and implementation. Delegates are working to define how the future Conference of the Parties (CoP) — the Agreement’s decision-making body — will operate in practice. This includes agreeing rules of procedure, shaping decision-making processes, and determining how funding will be secured to translate commitments into concrete action.
With the ocean facing rising temperatures, acidification, overexploitation, pollution, and other transboundary threats, there is no time to waste. Putting in place strong, transparent, and inclusive operational structures now will ensure that, once the Agreement enters into force, it can deliver meaningful protection from day one.
OceanCare at PrepCom 2
OceanCare will be attending the full PrepCom meeting, continuing to be a strong voice for an ambitious Agreement that safeguards marine life and ocean health. In parallel with the formal discussions, OceanCare is co-hosting a side event on the Clearing-House Mechanism with Austria, the Philippines, the United Kingdom, the Office of the Pacific Ocean Commissioner, the International Union for Conservation of Nature, the Natural Resources Defense Council, and the High Seas Alliance. Such events are critical for fostering frank and constructive dialogue between delegations, sharing insights, and exploring innovative solutions for effective ocean governance.
We are urging states to move swiftly from words to action — because the Ocean cannot wait.