60 to Global: Universal Ratification of the High Seas Treaty
The High Seas Treaty opened for State signatures on 20 September 2023. By signing, countries indicated their willingness to ratify and formally consent to the new international law.
On 19 September 2025, the High Seas Treaty reached the milestone of 60 state ratifications needed to trigger its entry into force, unlocking stronger international efforts to protect our ocean, mitigate climate change, and safeguard the lives and livelihoods of billions of people worldwide.
Following the 120-day countdown, the High Seas Treaty officially entered into force on 17 January 2026 and is now legally binding. But governments must now accelerate implementation and continue ratifying to strengthen global ocean protection.
*Denmark’s ratification does not apply to Greenland and the Faroe Islands.
