What's Happening?
The High Seas Treaty, also known as the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) agreement, has officially entered into force, designating at least 30% of international waters as protected marine areas. Despite this significant milestone, the United
Kingdom has not yet ratified the treaty, although it has shown support in principle. The delay is attributed to the need for the UK government to pass specific legislation, which was introduced to Parliament in September 2025 but has not yet been enacted. A coalition of 18 environmental NGOs and campaign groups, including Greenpeace, RSPB, and the Marine Conservation Society, have written an open letter to UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper, urging the government to expedite the legislative process. They emphasize the importance of ratifying the treaty before the first international conference of parties to the BBNJ, scheduled for August in Kenya.
Why It's Important?
The ratification of the High Seas Treaty is crucial for global marine conservation efforts, as it aims to protect vast areas of the ocean from destructive practices and promote restoration. The UK's delay in ratifying the treaty has raised concerns among environmental groups, as it could undermine international efforts to safeguard marine biodiversity. The treaty is part of the broader Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, which seeks to protect 30% of the world's land and sea by 2030. The UK's commitment to this framework is seen as vital for maintaining its leadership role in global environmental policy. Failure to ratify the treaty could weaken the UK's influence in international environmental negotiations and hinder progress towards achieving global biodiversity goals.
What's Next?
The UK government is under pressure to pass the necessary legislation to ratify the High Seas Treaty before the upcoming international conference in Kenya. Environmental groups are likely to continue advocating for swift action, emphasizing the treaty's importance for marine conservation and the UK's international reputation. The outcome of this legislative process will be closely watched by other nations and environmental stakeholders, as it could set a precedent for future international environmental agreements. If the UK successfully ratifies the treaty, it could strengthen its position as a leader in global biodiversity conservation efforts.
