High Seas Treaty Talks: Progress and Sticking Points
In August, 168 U.N. member states nearly finalized a legally binding treaty to protect biodiversity on the high seas — waters beyond national jurisdiction that make up two-thirds of the global ocean. Despite two weeks of intense negotiations in New York, consensus was not reached, though delegates committed to reconvene later this year.
Why the Treaty Matters
The treaty aims to close governance gaps left by the 1982 U.N. Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which predates many modern threats. The high seas are home to up to 10 million species, provide vital protein to over 3 billion people, and support nearly 600 million livelihoods. Yet they face growing pressure from industrial fishing, extractive industries, pollution, and climate change.
Key Issues Under Debate
- Marine Genetic Resources (MGRs): Ensuring fair and equitable sharing of benefits.
- Marine Protected Areas (MPAs): Establishing effective conservation zones.
- Environmental Impact Assessments: Setting standards for high-seas activities.
- Capacity Building & Technology Transfer: Supporting less-industrialized nations in meeting treaty goals.
Negotiation Outcomes
Rena Lee of Singapore, president of the Intergovernmental Conference on Marine Biodiversity, said: “We’re closer to the finish line than we’ve ever been before but … we still need a little more time.” Representatives from the G77 plus China echoed that progress was “quite incredible,” though they noted that earlier flexibility might have sealed the deal.
Next Steps
Talks will continue before year’s end, with hopes of finalizing a treaty that balances conservation, sustainable use, and fair access to the ocean’s vast resources.
