Arianna Beeray, Trinidad and Tobago
As a youth from a small island state, the High Seas represent both our vulnerability and our strength. They stabilize our climate, feed our people, and connect our world. Protecting them is protecting ourselves. With the Treaty entering into force, I hope it becomes a tool for true global cooperation, one that safeguards biodiversity, ensures fair access for developing states, and empowers young people to shape the ocean’s future.
Gayathra Bandara, Sri Lanka
The High Seas hold Earth’s last great wilderness, vast deep-sea ecosystems filled with life we are only beginning to understand. From fragile corals to ancient fishes, these species face increasing threats despite their importance. The High Seas Treaty gives me hope that we can finally protect these hidden worlds through science-based management and strong global cooperation. As it enters into force, I hope it becomes a true shield for deep sea.
Parker Shane ManalaysayParker Shane Manalaysay, Philippines
For months, I’ve been campaigning for the High Seas and the Treaty that protects it. Along the way, my perspective shifted. I now feel deeply connected to this vast, unseen ecosystem. Hearing people’s ocean stories showed me how the sea shapes our lives in ways we hardly notice. The High Seas Treaty is our promise to protect the ocean that sustains us. I hope it unites people everywhere to safeguard the vast blue we all share.
John Paul Hose, India
High seas play a major role in climate regulation and biodiversity conservation, supporting the foundations of human life on this planet. Their functions, resources and diversity have historically shaped global livelihoods, culture, and mobility. With increasing climate and human pressures on the High Seas, the realisation of the Treaty represents a crucial tipping point to rethink ocean health and governance through global cooperation and intergenerational goals
Jihyun LeeJihyun Lee, South Korea
The High Seas is the blue heart of our planet. It’s so essential to every living creature on earth, that without a healthy High Seas, the climate, biodiversity, the ecosystem, and humanity will eventually collapse. This legally binding Treaty must be acted upon properly by countries because the whole world is looking at its implementation. We want many MPAs, proper EIAs, and the legal obligation to protect the High Seas.
Ghaamid Abdulbasat Hatibu, Tanzania
Africa has a chance to lead in ocean governance. The Agreement offers opportunities to benefit from marine science, access new resources, and conserve and sustainably use biodiversity. But that opportunity is not guaranteed. Without a clear strategy, coordination, and preparation, African nations will remain on the sidelines. Weak coordination or vague positions will allow others to define African interests. Strong preparation, on the other hand, can shift Africa from being a spectator to a shaper of the global ocean commons.
Autone Mululuma, Zambia
The High Seas Treaty matters to me because it embodies equity, shared responsibility, and the fair use of marine genetic resources, while also connecting cultures across land and sea. Everyone should care because, after two decades of negotiation, humanity finally has an instrument to safeguard both people and nature. As it enters into force, I hope for collective commitment to conserving marine biodiversity and securing its benefits for future generations.
Francine Elisaia, Samoa
Francine ElisaiaAs a Pacific Islander, we are people of the water – it has provided for us in many ways and our reliance on it is intrinsically
connected: physically, spiritually, and environmentally. Caring for and protecting the ocean is not just a moral obligation but a duty for us Pacific Islanders, it is a way for us to reciprocate the love and respect that it so generously shows us every day. The High Seas making up a vast area of the ocean is an imperative part of the ocean that must be protected not just for its economic value, but for the precious life it holds, too.
I hope that countries gain more equitable access and benefits of the High Seas – this area of the ocean does not belong to one country and its shares must be fair and accessible to all. Additionally, I would also like for conservation and sustainable management practices and efforts of the High Seas to be enhanced to ensure the High Seas’ vast creatures and natural resources can continue to live and provide for many more years to come.
Ajay Sawant, India
I care about the High Seas because everything we treasure about the ocean from its vast biodiversity to its quiet beauty and its ability to protect us, depends profoundly on what happens there, albeit far from our shorelines. With the Treaty coming alive, my hope is steadfast implementation and swift ratification by nations yet to join. Above all, I hope countries treat this moment as a promise to cooperate, invest boldly, and safeguard the blue space that sustain us all — whether we see them or not.
Sonia Violante Ptasznik, Brazil
Representing Brazil as a High Seas Youth Ambassador was a milestone not only in my professional journey, but also in my personal life. Through the High Seas Alliance and EarthEcho International, I had my first experience developing advocacy campaigns and, although it felt intimidating at first, the direct support of mentors, who I now proudly call friends, made all the difference.
One of the most meaningful moments for me was the opportunity to listen to and work with diverse communities, learning how the High Seas hold a unique connection for each person. This experience reminded me that every one of us has the power to make a difference, and that with each person we engage, we move one step closer to the sustainable future we strive for. I am deeply grateful to be part of such a welcoming and inspiring community, and to have witnessed firsthand the power of youth in advancing the ratification of the BBNJ Treaty. Today, we celebrate this historic achievement, and the beginning of so much more to come!