What's Happening?
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has announced its support for the newly enforced Agreement under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, known as the BBNJ
Agreement. This legally binding treaty, which came into force on January 17, 2026, aims to conserve and sustainably use marine biological diversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction. The agreement, which has 145 signatories and 81 parties, focuses on marine genetic resources, area-based management tools, environmental impact assessments, and capacity building and technology transfer. The FAO is prepared to assist in the implementation of the agreement, leveraging its expertise in fisheries and aquaculture. The treaty emphasizes a cross-sectoral approach to managing human activities in these international waters, including fishing, shipping, and mining.
Why It's Important?
The BBNJ Agreement is significant as it addresses critical gaps in the governance of the world's oceans, which cover nearly two-thirds of the planet's surface. By focusing on sustainable practices and equitable sharing of marine genetic resources, the treaty aims to protect biodiversity while supporting economic activities like fishing and pharmaceuticals. The FAO's involvement is crucial, as it provides reliable data and expertise necessary for the treaty's implementation. This agreement could lead to more sustainable fisheries, improved global food security, and better conservation of marine ecosystems. It also sets a precedent for international cooperation in managing global commons, potentially influencing future treaties on environmental and resource management.
What's Next?
The FAO will continue to support countries and regional fishery bodies in implementing the BBNJ Agreement. This includes providing data, technical expertise, and capacity-building activities. The organization will also work on developing operational details of the agreement, ensuring that it is effectively enforced. Regional fisheries management organizations will play a key role in this process, using their experience to establish science-based management systems and monitoring frameworks. The success of the BBNJ Agreement will depend on the collaboration between international bodies, governments, and stakeholders to ensure that marine biodiversity is protected while allowing sustainable human use.
