London (20 September 2025) — The Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction Agreement (BBNJ), commonly known as the High Seas Treaty, has reached the pivotal threshold of 60 ratifications required for it to enter into force. This global treaty will legally protect the high seas for the first time, marking a new era in ocean governance. It addresses critical gaps in protecting marine biodiversity beyond national boundaries and helps ensure developing countries will benefit from scientific discoveries made in these waters. 

More than a year and a half after Palau became the first country to ratify the treaty, Morocco has become the 60th, triggering a 120-day countdown to its entry into force and setting the stage for a conference of parties (COP) to be held in 2026.

Following is a statement from Tom Pickerell, Global Director of World Resources Institute’s Ocean Program:

“This is one of the most significant international treaties to enter into force since the Paris Agreement. The fact that countries have come together to protect our largest shared space on Earth shows that international cooperation is still alive ahead of key summits this year, like COP30.

"This treaty isn’t just about the environment — it’s about safeguarding the ocean’s life-support systems that feed billions, support countless livelihoods and stabilize the climate we all depend on. It will unlock vital tools to protect the ocean as a shared resource, from marine protected areas and environmental impact assessments to equitable sharing of marine genetic resources.

“Governments can reinforce the treaty’s goals by committing to sustainably manage 100% of their own national waters, as called for by the Ocean Panel. National action and international cooperation on the high seas must go hand in hand to truly protect marine biodiversity and support a thriving ocean.

“Implementation must not become another decades-long slog, though. The high seas, and everyone who relies on them, can’t afford a further delay. The next steps will be vital and will require a major effort to mobilize finance, coordinate inclusive governance, and ensure meaningful consultation with scientists, civil society, Indigenous People and coastal communities.”