A wave of new ratifications during the U.N. Ocean Conference in France has brought the High Seas Treaty closer to the 60-country threshold needed for it to enter into force

Author: ANNIKA HAMMERSCHLAG Associated Press, ABC News
Published on: 10/06/2025 | 02:15:15

AI Summary:
Eighteen countries ratified the High Seas Treaty on Monday, bringing the total to 49. The surge in support, occurring during the U.N. Ocean Conference in Nice, France, adds momentum to what could become a historic shift in how the world governs the open ocean. This is the first legally binding agreement focused on protecting marine biodiversity in international waters. Once 60 countries ratify the treaty, a 120-day countdown begins before it officially enters into force. That would unlock the ability to begin designating protected areas in the high seas and put oversight mechanisms into motion. As of Monday evening, 49 countries and the EU had ratified. The surge in support on Monday has raised hopes that 2025 could mark a turning point for high seas protection. “So the next step will be to go from 60 to global,” Hubbard said.

Original: 644 words
Summary: 140 words
Percent reduction: 78.26%

I’m a bot and I’m open source