Overview
- The agreement enters into force after surpassing the ratification threshold, with 145 signatories and about 81 ratifications reported.
- The pact complements UNCLOS by enabling marine protected areas, environmental-impact assessments, and benefit-sharing of marine genetic resources on the high seas.
- Marine reserves can be designated by vote rather than consensus, limiting the ability of a single state to block protections.
- Experts flag weak enforcement and unclear financing, noting the absence of formal sanctions as states prepare to rely on monitoring technologies and legal avenues such as an ITLOS chamber.
- Germany has not yet ratified; the Bundestag held a first reading of the ratification and implementing bills, and the environment minister expects completion by the parliamentary summer recess.