Negotiating a New High Seas Treaty & Why it is important to the Pacific and its People

In December 2017, the United Nations committed to developing a new legally binding treaty to protect biodiversity in Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ). This BBNJ treaty will build on the Law of the Sea Convention and develop clearer rules for activities in the High Seas and the deep seabed beyond national jurisdiction (Pacific Blue Line).

On January 31, 2022 6:00 p.m. EST, our legal adviser to the Mission, Mr. Clement Yow Mulalap joins other Ocean experts to discuss what this treaty means for the Pacific and the role of Civil Society might play in the upcoming negotiations.

Mr. Clement Mulalap gave a clear and concise presentation on the overview of the BBNJ and the current state of the negotiation. The detail of his presentation slides is provided below for your viewing.