1. What is the High Seas Treaty about?
The High Seas Treaty, officially known as the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Agreement, creates a global framework for preserving and sustainably using marine biodiversity in areas beyond national control. It promotes equitable benefit-sharing, conservation, and responsible utilization of ocean resources.
2. Why is it significant?
Over 60 countries have ratified the treaty, signalling a global consensus to protect the oceans that cover nearly two-thirds of Earth’s surface. The agreement addresses major challenges like overfishing, pollution, and climate change impacts on marine ecosystems.
3. What are Marine Genetic Resources (MGRs)?
Marine Genetic Resources (MGRs) are biological materials from marine species with potential applications in medicine, food production, and industry. The treaty recognises MGRs as the common heritage of humankind, ensuring equitable access and benefit-sharing from their use.
4. What are Area-Based Management Tools (ABMTs)?
ABMTs include mechanisms like Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) that safeguard biodiversity, boost climate resilience, and ensure long-term food and livelihood security for coastal and island communities.
5. What is meant by the “common heritage of humankind”?
This concept means that resources beyond national boundaries belong to all of humanity collectively. No single nation can claim ownership, and all must share access and benefits fairly.
6. How does it differ from the “freedom of the high seas” principle?
While the freedom of the high seas allows unrestricted navigation, fishing, and research, the common heritage approach emphasizes equitable access and benefit-sharing. The treaty seeks to balance these two competing principles.
7. What are the main issues with implementation?
Implementation faces challenges such as:
• Balancing freedom vs. heritage principles.
• Unclear benefit-sharing mechanisms for MGRs.
• Limited participation by major powers like the U.S., China, and Russia.
• Lack of scientific and technical capacity in developing nations.
8. Why were developing nations concerned?
Developing countries feared being excluded from profits generated by discoveries in the high seas. Without robust benefit-sharing rules, wealthier nations could monopolize marine genetic research and commercial applications.
9. What institutional links does the treaty require?
The treaty must align with existing organisations such as the International Seabed Authority (ISA) and Regional Fisheries Management Organisations (RFMOs) to ensure coordinated governance and avoid duplication of roles.
10. What is needed going forward?
Future success depends on clear environmental impact assessment (EIA) mechanisms, transparent sharing of monetary and non-monetary benefits, and continuous monitoring to balance conservation and sustainable development in international waters.
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