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The End of the Unregulated Ocean: How the High Seas Treaty Rewrites Global Maritime Law

The landmark UN High Seas Treaty has officially secured 100 ratifications, marking a significant milestone ahead of its first Conference of the Parties in 2027.

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The High Seas Treaty aims to protect marine biodiversity across international waters, which cover nearly half the planet's surface.From: High Seas Treaty Reaches 100 Ratifications, Cementing Global Momentum for Ocean Protection

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Key numbers

64%
Portion of global ocean covered
91
Nations ratified as of mid-2026
30%
Global protection target by 2030
10 million
Estimated species in the high seas

From: The End of the Unregulated Ocean: How the High Seas Treaty Rewrites Global Maritime Law

Charts, maps and images

The treaty reached 100 ratifications a year after crossing the threshold for entry into force.From: High Seas Treaty Reaches 100 Ratifications, Cementing Global Momentum for Ocean Protection ·
Key figures driving the implementation of the BBNJ Agreement.From: The End of the Unregulated Ocean: How the High Seas Treaty Rewrites Global Maritime Law ·
Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction (ABNJ) cover roughly 64% of the ocean's surface.From: The End of the Unregulated Ocean: How the High Seas Treaty Rewrites Global Maritime Law ·
The rigorous process required to establish a new Marine Protected Area in international waters.From: The End of the Unregulated Ocean: How the High Seas Treaty Rewrites Global Maritime Law ·
Six nations deposited their instruments of ratification during the UN General Assembly in September 2026.From: High Seas Treaty Reaches 100 Ratifications, Cementing Global Momentum for Ocean Protection ·
Deep-sea organisms possess unique genetic properties that are highly sought after by the biotechnology sector.From: The End of the Unregulated Ocean: How the High Seas Treaty Rewrites Global Maritime Law ·

Timeline

September 2026

  1. High Seas Treaty Reaches 100 Ratifications, Cementing Global Momentum for Ocean Protection

July 2026

  1. The End of the Unregulated Ocean: How the High Seas Treaty Rewrites Global Maritime Law