Countries Gather in New York to Kickstart Implementation of High Seas Treaty
Almost two years after the historic adoption of the BBNJ Agreement (Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction), also known as the High Seas Treaty, countries will convene in New York from 14 to 25 April for the First Session of the BBNJ Preparatory Commission (PrepCom) to define the important parameters that will enable the swift entry into force of this landmark Agreement.
PrepCom: Technical Decisions with Major Impact
The PrepCom marks a critical step towards the entry into force and implementation of the Agreement. “We are pleased that countries have established a PrepCom to prepare the entry into force of the Agreement. Important decisions need to be taken, such as rules of procedures and modalities for the Agreement’s institutions”, said Johannes Müller, Ocean Policy Advisor at OceanCare, adding: “While such decisions may seem technical, they are fundamentally important to the effective functioning of the Agreement.”
The BBNJ Agreement, adopted on 19 June 2023, seeks to ensure long-term protection of marine biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction through mechanisms such as marine protected areas, environmental impact assessments, and capacity building. With 112 signatories and 21 ratifications to date, the Agreement still requires 39 ratifications to enter into force.
Urgency to Act: Ocean Health and Climate at Risk
“Given the dire state of the Ocean, the international community does not have time to lose,” said Fabienne McLellan, Managing Director at OceanCare, further noting that “the PrepCom offers a meaningful opportunity to avoid delay and take decisive steps towards implementation.”
Importantly, the High Seas Treaty is not just essential for coastal states or major seafaring nations. It holds significance for all countries, including landlocked nations such as Switzerland that depend on a stable climate, sustainable development, and access to global markets — all of which are directly tied to the health of marine ecosystems.
The ocean is a key ally in the fight against climate change: it absorbs roughly 30% of the carbon dioxide emitted by human activity and 90% of the excess heat generated by greenhouse gases. It also regulates global weather systems and sustains biodiversity, while over 90% of global trade relies on maritime shipping routes.
OceanCare Stresses the Need to Prioritise the Ocean
OceanCare will participate in the upcoming session and advocate for the swift and effective implementation of the Treaty. “We are here to remind governments that ocean protection must not be an afterthought — it is an urgent priority,” concludes Fabienne McLellan.
As the climate crisis intensifies—with rising sea levels, more frequent extreme weather events, and collapsing ecosystems—protecting the ocean is no longer optional; it is a matter of survival.
Side Event by Landlocked Countries
On Wednesday, 23 April, OceanCare is pleased to co-host a Side Event with Austria, Nepal, and the High Seas Alliance, focusing on the role of landlocked countries in implementing the BBNJ Agreement. The discussion will highlight the relevance of the Agreement for all countries—regardless of geographic location—the contributions of landlocked nations to ocean governance, and the opportunities for their engagement and benefit under the BBNJ Agreement.
