The world has reached a defining moment for ocean governance. The Agreement under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ Agreement) will officially enter into force on 17 January 2026.
Adopted in June 2023, this landmark treaty applies to over two-thirds of the ocean and represents a victory for both marine life and multilateralism. It strengthens international efforts to safeguard the health and resilience of ocean ecosystems while ensuring equitable access to ocean resources.
The Agreement is central to tackling the interconnected challenges of climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. It also aligns with global ocean-related goals, especially Sustainable Development Goal 14 (Life Below Water).
UN Secretary-General António Guterres welcomed the milestone, emphasizing its significance:
“The Agreement went from adoption to entry into force in just over two years. This rapid pace underscores the continued commitment of States to multilateralism. It also confirms that we can only face global challenges through collective efforts.”
The BBNJ Agreement provides a comprehensive framework for conserving and sustainably using marine biodiversity in international waters. Its key features include:
Equitable sharing of benefits from marine genetic resources.
Area-based management tools, such as the creation of marine protected areas.
Environmental impact assessments to guide responsible ocean activities.
Capacity-building and marine technology transfer to support developing countries in implementation.
These provisions ensure not only protection of ecosystems but also fair participation in the benefits derived from them.
To support its implementation, the Agreement establishes:
Institutional arrangements, including a permanent secretariat.
A financial mechanism to aid participating countries.
Provisions for the settlement of disputes.
Until the permanent secretariat is operational, the UN Division for Ocean Affairs and the Law of the Sea will handle administrative functions.
In April 2024, the UN General Assembly adopted resolution 78/272, creating a Preparatory Commission to pave the way for the first Conference of the Parties (COP) to the Agreement.
The Commission has already held sessions in April and August 2025.
Its third session will take place from 23 March to 2 April 2026, focusing on governance matters crucial to the treaty’s implementation.
The first COP will be convened by the UN Secretary-General within one year of entry into force.
The rapid adoption and entry into force of the Marine Biodiversity Treaty highlights what can be achieved when nations work together. With its focus on fairness, sustainability, and resilience, the Agreement is not just about protecting marine life — it’s about safeguarding the future of humanity itself.