The Pacific Ocean Commissioner, Filimon Manoni, has expressed his enthusiasm following the activation of the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Agreement, which officially came into effect yesterday. He characterized this moment as a pivotal achievement for the governance of international oceans and a testament to Pacific leadership.
In his statement, Dr. Manoni emphasized that the start of the BBNJ Agreement represents “an auspicious occasion and a triumph in our united efforts on oceans management and oceans governance.” He highlighted the two-decade-long negotiations that shaped the agreement, specifically noting the active and influential role played by Pacific nations in the process.
The BBNJ Agreement, which operates under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, focuses on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity in areas beyond national jurisdictions. Adopted on June 19, 2023, it is now recognized as the third implementing agreement under UNCLOS. Dr. Manoni remarked that this agreement establishes, for the first time, a binding legal framework designed to govern marine biodiversity in these often-overlooked global regions.
According to Dr. Manoni, the BBNJ Agreement encompasses various essential aspects, including marine genetic resources and equitable benefit sharing, area-based management tools, environmental impact assessments, and the transfer of marine technology. Its ultimate aim is to conserve and sustainably utilize marine biological diversity for current and future generations.
The Commissioner commended the leadership displayed by Pacific nations, shining a light on the Federated States of Micronesia, the first UN member state to sign the agreement, and Palau, the first country to ratify it. Currently, eight Pacific countries have ratified the treaty, contributing to a collective total of 145 signatories and 83 parties to the BBNJ Agreement. Dr. Manoni called for concerted efforts to expand the treaty’s global reach, stressing the need for true universalization.
He also indicated that the Office of the Pacific Ocean Commissioner (OPOC) was assigned by Pacific Islands Forum leaders to spearhead regional initiatives related to the treaty. To date, OPOC has organized national workshops and regional meetings while providing policy support across the region.
While celebrating the achievement, Dr. Manoni noted that substantial work remains. He emphasized the importance of laying the groundwork now to ensure effective participation and implementation of the treaty. The OPOC, alongside regional partners, aims to continue supporting Pacific members to achieve success in this endeavor. Ultimately, the BBNJ Agreement is expected to help fulfill the Forum Leaders’ vision of managing 100 percent of the Pacific Ocean, both within and beyond national jurisdictions.
This development represents a significant step forward in the conservation of marine biodiversity and offers hope for future generations to benefit from sustainable ocean resource management.