Overview
- The agreement became international law on 17 January 2026, 120 days after the 60th ratification was reached on 19 September 2025.
- It establishes the first binding framework for conserving biodiversity beyond national jurisdiction, enabling high-seas marine protected areas, equitable benefit-sharing for marine genetic resources, and support for capacity building and technology transfer.
- From the outset, states must apply treaty-required environmental impact assessments and publicly notify activities that could affect the high seas or the seabed.
- A Preparatory Commission is shaping institutions and procedures, with the first Conference of the Parties required to convene within one year to adopt operational rules.
- There are 83 parties so far, with more accessions encouraged before CoP1; Spain was the first EU ratifier, the United States has not ratified, China has ratified, and Russia has not signed.