High Seas Treaty enters into force, marking a new era for global ocean protection

On 17 January 2026, the High Seas Treaty, formally known as the Agreement on Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ), entered into force, 120 days after reaching the milestone of 60 ratifications. The agreement now applies to all parties that have ratified it, representing a major step forward in protecting ocean biodiversity and improving governance in areas beyond national jurisdiction.

The treaty establishes a comprehensive international framework to conserve marine ecosystems on the high seas, promote equity, and strengthen cooperation among states. It lays the groundwork for long-term, coordinated action to address mounting pressures on the global ocean, including pollution, overexploitation, climate change and biodiversity loss.