On the opening day of the first Preparatory Commission (PrepCom 1) for the High Seas Treaty, the High Seas Alliance and a number of its members brought together delegates, policymakers, and civil society for a celebratory evening reception.
As the global community embarks on the crucial next phase to implement the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Agreement, this event marked a moment to recognize collective progress, build momentum, and reaffirm a shared commitment to safeguarding the ocean beyond national borders.
The atmosphere buzzed with energy and determination, underscoring the significance of this moment in ocean governance history. Over the past two decades, what began as a vision held by a small group of ocean champions has grown into a global movement.
“Twenty-plus years later, from just a few States advocating for this Treaty, we have a ground swell of support… It shows the dedication that we have to making something that seemed impossible possible,” said Janine Coye-Felson, Deputy Permanent Representative of Belize to the United Nations, and co-chair of PrepCom 1.
“But there’s a lot of work yet to be done: we have to operationalize it. Because without doing that, all the ambition that we are aiming for will not be realized. It is about equity and inclusiveness—operationalizing these sacred principles to realize our ambition in the BBNJ Treaty.”
The event highlighted the importance of bringing the Treaty into force, requiring a minimum of 60 ratifications, and preparing for its effective and equitable implementation.
Rebecca Hubbard, Director of the HSA, noted: “To turn this opportunity into reality, we need at least 60 ratifications for the Treaty to enter into force. I’d like to acknowledge the enormous amount of work and effort that has been put in by governments, regional organizations, DOALOS, the HSA and our member organizations… We congratulate France, Malawi, the Republic of Marshall Islands, the Republic of Korea, Spain, Antigua and Barbuda for ratifying in the last few months.”
Nichanan Tanthanawit, an Ocean Campaigner from Greenpeace followed with a powerful reminder of the urgent need to put the Treaty into action: “Delegates, please remember the purpose behind this work as you shape the procedures behind the High Seas Treaty. These technical discussions will define the future of ocean governance. Behind them are real ecosystems, communities, and generations to come. The ocean needs more than promises—it needs action. Let’s sign, ratify, and bring this Treaty to life—before there’s no life left to protect.”
The need for inclusive, people-centered implementation and the opportunity to raise ambition on the road to the next UN Ocean Conference was also emphasized during the evening.
“All the preparation for protecting biodiversity beyond national jurisdiction is reminding us why we need to do this. It’s not for the billionaires of this planet but for the billions of people on this planet,” said Minna Epps, Head of IUCN’s Ocean Program.
Epps also announced the re-launch of a High Ambition Coalition of countries for the High Seas Treaty: “This is an optimal moment to mobilize all support for fair and equitable implementation. The HAC will now be co-chaired by SIDS representatives, which underlines the importance of inclusiveness.”
A powerful reminder of Indigenous leadership and knowledge was offered by Ghazali Ohorella, from the International Indian Treaty Council and Indigenous Peoples, and local communities advisor to the HSA who reflected:
“Imagine being the only kid in the back of a classroom knowing the answer to a complex equation that nobody wants to call upon. This is the image that shows how Indigenous peoples feel when it comes to solutions to fighting the triple planetary crises.
The BBNJ Agreement includes more than 20 references to Traditional Knowledge, but it shouldn’t stop there.”
Closing remarks from Elinor Hammarksjold, UN Legal Council and Under Secretary General of the Office of Legal Affairs echoed the evening’s key message: that civil society remains vital in pushing for swift ratification and turning this historic agreement into meaningful protection:
“The adoption of the BBNJ agreement in 2023 was a historic achievement and a triumph of multilateralism. Now, it’s about translating into action… I’m heartened to see the continued, active participation of civil society in the PrepCom. You will play an immensely important role once the Treaty enters into force.”
The reception set the tone for PrepCom 1: collaborative, ambitious, and deeply committed to equity and ocean protection. As we move ahead, the task is clear: build the legal, institutional, and financial frameworks necessary to ensure that this Treaty becomes a turning point for the ocean and the planet.
Images courtesy of Stephanie Keith / Greenpeace