Filimon Manoni, the Pacific Ocean Commissioner, has heralded the commencement of the groundbreaking Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Agreement, which took effect on Saturday. He hailed this development as a significant achievement for international ocean governance and a testament to Pacific leadership.
In his statement, Dr. Manoni noted that the agreement’s entry into force represents “an auspicious occasion and a triumph in our united efforts on ocean management and governance.” He emphasized that this milestone reflects over 20 years of negotiations wherein Pacific nations have played a vital and influential role.
The BBNJ Agreement, adopted on June 19, 2023, is grounded in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and marks the third implementing agreement under UNCLOS aimed at the conservation and sustainable use of marine biological diversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction. Dr. Manoni underscored this agreement as the first of its kind to establish a binding legal framework for managing marine biodiversity in these often-overlooked areas.
“This agreement is a comprehensive package that addresses marine genetic resources and equitable benefit sharing, area-based management tools, environmental impact assessments, and the transfer of marine technology,” he detailed. The aim, ultimately, is to conserve and sustainably use marine biological resources for both current and future generations.
Dr. Manoni also recognized the vital leadership shown by Pacific countries, commending the Federated States of Micronesia for being the first UN member to sign the agreement and Palau for its status as the first to ratify it. Currently, eight Pacific nations have ratified the treaty, and across the globe, there are 145 signatories and 83 parties to the BBNJ Agreement.
Despite the progress made, Dr. Manoni stressed that the journey is far from over. “We must collaborate to ensure true universalization of the treaty,” he said. The Office of the Pacific Ocean Commissioner (OPOC) has been tasked with coordinating regional efforts related to the treaty and has conducted national workshops and regional meetings to bolster support across the area.
“While we have good cause to celebrate, the real work lies ahead,” Dr. Manoni remarked, highlighting the importance of laying the groundwork for effective participation and implementation. He reassured that OPOC, along with regional partners, will continue to advocate for Pacific nations to ensure the success of this pivotal agreement.
Ultimately, the BBNJ Agreement aligns with the vision of Pacific Forum Leaders to effectively manage 100 percent of the Pacific Ocean, encompassing both national and international waters. This significant step towards enhanced marine governance opens the door to a future where ocean resources are protected and sustainably utilized for generations to come.
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