Pacific Nations Push for Urgent Action on BBNJ Agreement

Regional partners are urging Fiji to expedite its ratification of the BBNJ Agreement, as nations across the Pacific make strides in fulfilling their commitments under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. The BBNJ Agreement, which focuses on the conservation and sustainable use of marine biological diversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction, was adopted on June 19, 2023.

The government of Samoa is taking proactive measures by hosting a national workshop aimed at reinforcing the implementation of the BBNJ Agreement. This workshop, organized in collaboration with the Office of the Pacific Ocean Commissioner (OPOC) and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), is set to clarify the roles of key stakeholders and align existing policies with the agreement’s objectives. IUCN’s Oceania Regional Director, Leituala Kuiniselani Toelupe Tago, emphasized the importance of the BBNJ framework, particularly for the Pacific, which heavily relies on its ocean resources. She voiced concerns that overexploitation and climate change pose significant threats to marine ecosystems, highlighting the urgent need for stronger collaborative efforts to protect biodiversity beyond national jurisdictions.

Furthermore, the recent discussions emphasize that beyond mere ratification, effective governance of marine biological diversity will require thorough implementation. This involves engaging scientists, Indigenous Peoples, and local communities in the formulation of ocean policies. Dr. Filimon Manoni, the Pacific Ocean Commissioner, has commended Samoa’s initiative in fostering regional cooperation, noting that the Republic of the Marshall Islands has already ratified the agreement, while Kiribati is a signatory.

The overarching sentiment across the Pacific region reflects a positive momentum towards enhanced collaboration in ocean governance. The commitment to sustainability and inclusive engagement underscores a collective effort to ensure healthier marine ecosystems, which is vital for the communities that depend on these resources. Through continued dialogue and partnerships, Pacific nations are implicitly paving the way for a more resilient future for both their oceans and people.