Oceana: Nations Ratify High Seas Treaty, Setting Stage for Greater Ocean Protection

(Sept 19, 2025) Today the High Seas Treaty received its 60th ratification, officially kickstarting the 120-day countdown until it enters into force. Covering almost half of the Earth’s surface, the high seas are shared by everyone but have lacked the governance needed to protect its biodiversity. Until now, there was no legal mechanism to establish such protections. The High Seas Treaty, also known as the BBNJ Agreement, will address this gap by establishing a governing body and legal process to create marine protected areas (MPAs) on the high seas and by setting standards for environmental impact assessments of high seas activities. Oceana’s Chief Scientist Dr. Katie Matthews says, “For the first time, we have the legal foundation to safeguard marine diversity in waters that belong to everyone and no one at the same time. What matters now is turning paper into protection.” More STORY.