The new High Seas Treaty to safeguard marine life and ensure the equitable sharing of benefits from marine genetic resources opened for signing on 20th September 2023 at the United Nations in New York. The Treaty now needs at least 60 countries to ratify it so it can enter into force as soon as possible and make change on the water.
The High Seas Alliance, in collaboration with AIDA, IUCN, and Rutgers University, is set to make waves at COP28 with a thought-provoking side event titled “How can international ocean law assist States to meet their climate change obligations?“.
Scheduled for Monday, December 11, from 13:15 to 14:45 in SE Room 3 at COP28 in Dubai, the event promises a deep dive into the critical intersection of international ocean law and climate change responsibilities.
The distinguished panel assembled for this event reflects a wealth of expertise and global perspectives:
Walter Shuldt, Chief Negotiator, Government of Ecuador: Bringing insights from the front lines of international negotiations, Shuldt will shed light on the challenges and opportunities for states in aligning ocean policies with climate change commitments.
Cymie Payne, Rutgers University, IUCN: As a representative from academia and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), Payne will provide a scholarly perspective on the legal frameworks available to support states in meeting their climate obligations.
Rebecca Hubbard, High Seas Alliance: With a focus on High Seas conservation and the High Seas Treaty, Hubbard’s expertise will contribute to the conversation around the role of ocean governance in the broader climate change agenda.
Lisa Levin, Scripps Oceanography: Levin, a representative from Scripps Oceanography, will bring a scientific lens to the discussion, highlighting the interconnectedness of ocean health and climate resilience.
Nilufer Oral, National University of Singapore, UN International Law Commission: Oral’s contribution is anticipated to provide insights into the international legal landscape, especially in the context of the ongoing Race for Ratification of the BBNJ (Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction) Treaty.
Javier Davalos, Interamerican Association for Environmental Defense (AIDA): Davalos’ perspective from the Interamerican Association for Environmental Defense is expected to add a crucial dimension to the discussion, addressing environmental defense in the Americas.
The central theme of the event, exploring how international ocean law can support states in fulfilling their climate change obligations, is particularly timely. Against the backdrop of the Race for Ratification of the BBNJ Treaty, the panelists will dissect the treaty’s potential impact on global efforts to address climate change through effective ocean governance.
As the world races towards a sustainable future, this side event promises to provide a compass for policymakers, negotiators, and advocates navigating the intricate waters of international ocean law and climate action.
Stay tuned for insights and a deeper understanding of how our shared commitment to the ratification and implementation of the High Seas Treaty can contribute to a climate-resilient world.
Are you passionate about marine biodiversity? We are thrilled to announce an exciting opportunity to join the High Seas Alliance core team as Regional Coordinators. If you share our dedication to the protection of the High Seas, we invite you to apply for this vital role.
The High Seas Treaty opened to State signatures on 20 September 2023 at the United Nations in New York . By signing, countries express their willingness to proceed to ratifying the Treaty.
After the first two days of signing, the count quickly reached 75 signatures. This amazing momentum really sets the Treaty in good stead for swift ratification and entry into force, making us one step closer to realizing the protection that the ocean so badly needs.
Hollywood stars, Heads of State and ocean leaders call for urgent ocean protections as Treaty opens for signature at United Nations.
New York, 20 September 2023: As the historic High Seas Treaty opened to United Nations (UN) Member States for signatures at the UN General Assembly today, actors Sigourney Weaver and Jane Fonda supported the High Seas Alliance and its 52 members in challenging countries to compete in a Race for Ratification, with the ambitious goal of fast-tracking the Treaty’s entry into force as soon as 2025.
Welcome to our UNGA 78 Daily Updates blog! Stay tuned for regular coverage of our activities during the SDG Summit, 78th United Nations General Assembly and Climate Week in New York city.
Join Us for Three Exciting Events During the 78th United Nations General Assemblyand Climate WeekNYC
As we approach the momentous occasion of the High Seas Treaty opening for signature on September 20th, these events, organised in collaboration with partners, offer an unparalleled chance to delve into ocean climate action, sustainable practices, and the future of our planet’s ocean.
Join us at the SDG Action Weekend to accelerate protection of high seas biodiversity
The race for ratification of the High Seas Treaty is the perfect example of how, by working together around the world, we can accelerate action to deliver the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Press Release Available in English, French and Spanish
New York, 19th June 2023: The High Seas Alliance applauded governments meeting at the United Nations in New York today for formally adopting the new High Seas Treaty to protect ocean life after running out of time in early March when the negotiations were finalised.