- A UN-backed treaty on biodiversity in international waters, formally known as the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Treaty, has entered into force, creating the first legally binding global framework to conserve and sustainably use the high seas.
- High seas refer to ocean areas beyond national jurisdiction, i.e., beyond 200 nautical miles (Exclusive Economic Zones – EEZs).
- They cover nearly two-thirds of the global ocean and about half of the Earth’s surface.
- Earlier governed mainly by general principles under UNCLOS, with limited biodiversity-specific regulation. Read More
UN High Seas Treaty Comes Into Effect
Context
What are the High Seas?
