What's Happening?
The BBNJ Agreement, a legally binding global treaty under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, has come into force as of January 17, 2026. The treaty focuses on the conservation and sustainable use of marine biological diversity in areas
beyond national jurisdiction. With 145 signatories and 81 Parties, the agreement addresses critical governance gaps in ocean areas that cover nearly two-thirds of the planet. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations has expressed its readiness to support the implementation of the agreement, leveraging its expertise in fisheries governance, data systems, and capacity building. The treaty emphasizes the fair and equitable sharing of benefits from marine genetic resources and integrates science-based management across sectors.
Why It's Important?
The BBNJ Agreement represents a significant advancement in global efforts to protect marine biodiversity, which is crucial for maintaining healthy ocean ecosystems and supporting sustainable fisheries. By addressing governance gaps in areas beyond national jurisdiction, the treaty aims to ensure that marine resources are conserved and used sustainably, benefiting global food security and livelihoods dependent on ocean resources. The FAO's involvement underscores the importance of international cooperation and the need for reliable data and capacity building to achieve the treaty's objectives. The agreement's focus on equitable benefit-sharing from marine genetic resources highlights the growing recognition of the economic and ecological value of ocean biodiversity.
What's Next?
As countries move toward implementing the BBNJ Agreement, the FAO will play a key role in providing technical support and facilitating international collaboration. The operational details of the treaty are still being developed, and the success of its implementation will depend on the effective integration of existing regional and sectoral management frameworks. The FAO's data systems and capacity-building programs will be essential in supporting countries and regional fisheries bodies in aligning with the treaty's goals. The ongoing collaboration between international organizations and national governments will be critical in ensuring the sustainable management of marine resources and the protection of biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction.
