First treaty to protect marine life in high seas to take effect in January

"The first-ever treaty to protect marine diversity in international waters will come into force early next year, after it was ratified by the 60th nation, Morocco. Morocco's formal adoption of the Marine Biodiversity Treaty on Friday means the agreement will now enter into force on January 17, 2026, offering new protections to an area covering two-thirds of the world's oceans and as many as 10 million different species, many of which are still unidentified."

"Covering more than two-thirds of the ocean, the agreement sets binding rules to conserve and sustainably use marine biodiversity, share benefits more fairly, create protected areas, and advance science and capacity-building, Guterres said, urging the governments that had yet to join to do so without delay. In addition to the 60 countries that have fully ratified the treaty, a further 122 countries, as well as the European Union, have signed the agreement, signalling their intention to ratify."

Morocco ratified the Marine Biodiversity Treaty as the 60th nation, triggering its entry into force on January 17, 2026. The treaty creates protections across more than two-thirds of the world's oceans and covers up to ten million species, many unidentified. Countries accelerated ratification amid threats including climate change, over-fishing and deep-sea mining. Morocco's Mission to the United Nations described the entry into force as a milestone for ocean protection and collective commitment beyond national jurisdiction. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called the treaty a lifeline from climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution. The agreement establishes binding rules to conserve biodiversity, create protected areas, share benefits, and advance science and capacity-building. Sixty countries have ratified and a further 122 countries plus the EU have signed.

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