A significant global treaty dedicated to protecting the world’s oceans and restoring marine life is on the verge of becoming international law. The High Seas Treaty has officially met the requirements for ratification, with Morocco’s 60th endorsement on Friday paving the way for its implementation in January. This treaty, the culmination of two decades of dedicated effort, will enable the designation of large sections of international waters as marine protected areas.
Environmental advocates are celebrating this achievement as a major victory for conservation, demonstrating the power of international cooperation in addressing environmental challenges. The United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, emphasized the treaty’s importance, stating, “Covering more than two-thirds of the ocean, the agreement sets binding rules to conserve and sustainably use marine biodiversity.”
For years, overfishing, pollution from shipping, and the warming effects of climate change have severely impacted marine life. Recent assessments highlight the alarming state of our oceans, with nearly 10% of marine species at risk of extinction, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). A key goal set three years ago was to protect 30% of the world’s high seas by 2030 to aid the recovery of marine populations.
However, the high seas, being beyond national jurisdiction, present unique challenges. Currently, only a small fraction – 1% – of these vital areas are protected, leaving marine life vulnerable to unsustainable practices. The High Seas Treaty, signed in 2023, aims to change this by committing nations to establishing Marine Protected Areas across 30% of these waters.
The rapid ratification process, which can often take over five years due to parliamentary approvals, has been described as “record time” by experts. Environmental organizations have lauded the treaty’s imminent enforcement. Kirsten Schuijt, Director-General of the World Wide Fund for Nature, called it “a monumental achievement for ocean conservation,” adding that it will be a “positive catalyst for collaboration across international waters” and a turning point for two-thirds of the globe’s ocean.
Mads Christensen, Executive Director of Greenpeace International, echoed this sentiment, labeling it “a landmark moment” and proof that nations can unite to protect the planet. “The era of exploitation and destruction must end. Our oceans can’t wait and neither can we,” he urged.
Once the treaty is in effect, participating nations will propose areas for protection, which will then be subject to a vote. While critics note that countries will conduct their own environmental impact assessments, the framework allows for concerns to be raised with monitoring bodies. The ocean’s health is critical for global survival, supporting economies and providing a significant portion of the oxygen we breathe.