Overview
- Entry into force on January 17 makes the BBNJ agreement international law for ratifying states covering waters beyond national jurisdiction, roughly two‑thirds of the ocean.
- More than 80 countries have ratified, including China, Brazil and Japan, while the United States, the United Kingdom and Australia remain signatories without ratification.
- Immediate requirements include treaty‑standard environmental impact assessments for activities that could harm marine life and fair, transparent sharing of benefits from marine genetic resources.
- Key institutions and rules are being built, with a preparatory session due in late March and a first Conference of the Parties within a year to set budgets, committees and MPA approval procedures.
- The treaty enables proposals for high‑seas marine protected areas toward the 30x30 goal, though enforcement, monitoring and funding remain challenges, and seabed mining stays under the International Seabed Authority.