UN High Seas Ocean Treaty: Expert available

UNSW Sydney

• Ms Eliza Northrop – Director of UNSW’s Centre for Sustainable Development Reform

The High Seas Treaty, also known as the BBNJ agreement, has been ratified by more than 60 countries, becoming the first legal framework aimed at protecting biodiversity in international waters.

This triggers a 120-day countdown for the treaty to take effect. The milestone marks a new era for ocean governance, opening the door to protect nearly half our planet that lies beyond national borders.

There’s more work to be done around implementation, finance and enforcement. But after more than 20 years of negotiations, this historic treaty is coming into force in January 2026.

Ms Eliza Northrop Eliza specialises in international environmental law and is Director of the UNSW Centre for Sustainable Development Reform.

Interviews available. Please contact:

Ashleigh Steele

Communications Officer, UNSW Sydney

0421 308 805

[email protected]