BBNJ, a first historic treaty adopted in favour of the High Seas
Monaco
Article
On Monday 19 June, the United Nations Member States, of which Monaco has been part of for 30 years, adopted by consensus the first international treaty on the preservation of the High Seas. Following 15 years of negotiations, these States reached this important agreement on 4 March 2023 on a legal framework to protect the parts of the ocean located outside national jurisdictions. This historic agreement marks a significant step forward in safeguarding international waters and in meeting the 30x30 commitment called for by the Global Biodiversity Framework adopted in December 2022 (to protect one third of the world's seas and lands by 2030). Read more.
In His
speech, HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco welcomed this agreement, the fruit of
many years of discussions:
"With this Agreement, we are breaking with the status quo. We commit ourselves to fight more effectively against the threats affecting the seas and oceans, in particular the massive loss of marine biodiversity, the destruction of marine habitats and ecosystems, pollution, overfishing and the harmful effects of climate change (...) The same determination that led to the conclusion of the negotiations must guide us to ensure that this historic agreement is implemented as quickly as possible".
Before reiterating that Monaco will pursue its commitment and continue to work to preserve the world's oceans.
The BBNJ
Agreement will be open for signature for two years from 20 September 2023 and
requires ratification by 60 States to enter into force.
©Frédéric Nebinger / Palais Princier
