Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ)

The Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Treaty, also known as the High Seas Treaty, is a new international agreement focused on the conservation and sustainable use of marine biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction. After two decades of negotiations, the treaty aims to address the lack of comprehensive governance in the high seas, which cover nearly half the planet. The treaty is newsworthy due to its potential to become a focal point for geopolitical competition. Recent developments include China's proposal to host the treaty's secretariat, signaling its ambition to play a larger role in international governance. Simultaneously, the US is withdrawing from numerous international organizations. The treaty's relevance is heightened by ongoing territorial disputes, particularly in the South China Sea, where the conservation framework could be leveraged to advance competing claims. The BBNJ Treaty represents a significant step towards protecting marine ecosystems but also introduces new complexities in international relations.