Summary
A new United Nations treaty to protect marine life in international waters will soon become active. This treaty, called the High Seas Treaty, has been signed by 148 countries and fully integrated into laws by 81 governments. It aims to conserve ocean biodiversity and manage marine resources sustainably.
Key Facts
- The treaty is known as the Agreement on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ).
- It covers two-thirds of the world's oceans, aiming to protect up to 10 million marine species.
- 148 countries, representing over three-quarters of UN member states, have signed the treaty.
- 81 countries have ratified the treaty, making it a part of their national laws.
- Major countries like China, Germany, Japan, France, and Brazil have fully ratified the treaty.
- The treaty aims to address threats to marine life, including climate change and pollution.
- The United States has signed but not yet ratified the treaty.
- President Donald Trump has announced plans for the U.S. to withdraw from various treaties but has not included the High Seas Treaty in this list.
