President Biden has sent the Agreement on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction, commonly known as the High Seas Treaty or BBNJ Agreement, to the Senate for advice and consent to ratification. This treaty aims to protect freedoms on the high seas and promote scientific research and innovation while establishing mechanisms for ecosystem protection.
The high seas make up nearly two-thirds of the global ocean. The treaty also introduces rules that encourage companies to invest in research and development using marine genetic resources from these areas.
The High Seas Treaty represents years of multilateral diplomacy aimed at creating a framework for international cooperation in conserving and sustainably using marine biodiversity beyond national jurisdictions.
For further details, individuals are encouraged to visit the Department of State’s Bureau of Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs website. Press inquiries can be directed to OES-Press@state.gov.
