In Nice, France, the third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3) produced a mixed bag of results as 170 countries endorsed the “Our Ocean, Our Future” declaration and the Nice Action Plan. While there were notable strides forward, particularly regarding the ratification of the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Treaty, which aims to protect marine biodiversity in the high seas, the conference also saw significant omissions that left many delegates frustrated.
A substantial boost was seen in the number of countries ratifying the BBNJ Treaty, which rose from 22 to 51, just nine counties short of the 60 necessary for the treaty to take effect. Dr. Michael Sivendra, Fiji’s Permanent Secretary for Environment and Climate Change, highlighted the treaty as vital for safeguarding what he described as the largely unregulated two-thirds of the world’s oceans. Notably, countries like Fiji, Tuvalu, Vanuatu, and the Solomon Islands submitted their ratifications, showcasing increased regional engagement.
Joey Tau, Coordinator of the Pacific Network on Globalisation (PANG), emphasized the treaty’s significance for both biodiversity and climate regulation, stating that many Pacific nations are witnessing shifts in ocean patterns that the treaty could help address.
However, not all aspects of the conference were received positively. Despite the growing appeal for a global moratorium on deep-sea mining, which had garnered support from 37 nations and civil society groups, the final declaration notably excluded the term “precautionary principle.” This omission has been described as a strategic failure, shedding light on the influence of corporate and state lobbying. Rufino Varea of the Pacific Islands Climate Action Network expressed disappointment, particularly as nations like the Marshall Islands and Solomon Islands move towards their own moratoriums or reviews of deep-sea mining.
Another point of contention was the absence of any mention of fossil fuels in the political declaration despite strong advocacy from Pacific nations, particularly Vanuatu. Varea criticized the silence on fossil fuels as a deliberate oversight that neglects urgent climate responsibilities.
This event highlighted the complexities and challenges that Pacific nations face, balancing their urgent call for environmental protection against the powerful interests operating at the international level. As Pacific nations grow in unity and voice, they continue to push for meaningful change in how ocean governance is approached.
The positive developments regarding the BBNJ Treaty signal a promising momentum for global cooperation on ocean issues and could inspire bold actions towards sustainable practices in marine resource management. With ongoing advocacy and regional collaboration, there remains hope for a healthier ocean future that aligns with both ecological realities and the rights of indigenous communities.
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