“The ocean’s health is humanity’s health,” declared UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres in September 2025. These powerful words were spoken after the High Seas Treaty (BBNJ) finally achieved ratification, marking a significant step towards protecting our planet’s most vital resource. Guterres went on to call for “a swift, full implementation” from all partners, emphasizing the urgency of the situation. And now, as of January 17, 2026, the treaty has come into force, signaling a new era of global cooperation and responsibility towards our oceans.
The High Seas Treaty, also known as the BBNJ (Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction) treaty, is a landmark agreement that aims to conserve and sustainably use marine biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction. These are the vast expanses of the ocean that lie beyond the jurisdiction of any single country, covering nearly half of the Earth’s surface. These areas are home to a diverse array of marine life, from microscopic plankton to majestic whales, and play a crucial role in regulating the Earth’s climate and providing resources for human well-being.
For years, the lack of a comprehensive legal framework for the high seas has left these areas vulnerable to overexploitation and environmental degradation. The BBNJ treaty seeks to address this by establishing a set of rules and regulations for the conservation and sustainable use of marine biodiversity in these areas. It covers a wide range of issues, including marine genetic resources, area-based management tools, environmental impact assessments, and capacity building for developing countries.
The road to ratification of the BBNJ treaty has been a long and challenging one. Negotiations began in 2004, and it took over 15 years for the treaty to finally achieve the required number of ratifications for it to come into force. This delay is a testament to the complexity and sensitivity of the issues at hand, as well as the dedication and perseverance of all those involved in the negotiations.
But now, with the treaty in force, the real work begins. The implementation of the BBNJ treaty will require a coordinated effort from all nations, as well as the private sector, civil society, and other stakeholders. It will require a shift in mindset, from viewing the ocean as an endless resource to recognizing its finite nature and the need to protect it for future generations.
The benefits of a healthy ocean are immeasurable. It provides us with food, medicine, and livelihoods, and is a source of inspiration and recreation. It also plays a crucial role in regulating the Earth’s climate, absorbing carbon dioxide and producing oxygen. But the ocean’s health is under threat from a range of human activities, including overfishing, pollution, and climate change. The BBNJ treaty provides a much-needed framework for addressing these threats and ensuring the sustainable use of our oceans.
The implementation of the BBNJ treaty will also have positive impacts on other global issues, such as poverty reduction, food security, and gender equality. By protecting marine biodiversity, we are also safeguarding the livelihoods of millions of people who depend on the ocean for their survival. Furthermore, the treaty recognizes the importance of the participation of women and indigenous communities in ocean governance, promoting a more inclusive and equitable approach to ocean management.
The BBNJ treaty is a shining example of what can be achieved when the international community comes together to address a common challenge. It is a testament to the power of multilateralism and the determination of nations to work towards a sustainable future for all. But the success of the treaty will ultimately depend on its implementation. It is now up to all nations to fulfill their commitments and work towards the conservation and sustainable use of our oceans.
In conclusion, the BBNJ treaty coming into force is a cause for celebration and a reason for hope. It marks a significant step towards protecting our oceans and ensuring the health and well-being of humanity. As UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres stated, “the ocean’s health is humanity’s health.” Let us all join hands and work towards a healthier, more sustainable future for our planet and all its inhabitants.
