Ireland announces approval of ratification of the BBNJ Agreement – a landmark treaty to protect global oceans

The Tánaiste, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Simon Harris TD, and Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment, Darragh O'Brien TD, have today announced the Government’s decision to ratify the Agreement on Marine Biodiversity beyond National Jurisdiction, known as the BBNJ Agreement.

The BBNJ Agreement is the first dedicated global treaty on the conservation and sustainable use of marine biodiversity of the High Seas and the deep seabed. The High Seas comprise

two thirds of oceans and half the surface area of the planet, but fall outside the jurisdiction of any country.

Welcoming the planned ratification of the Agreement, the Tánaiste said:

“This historic Agreement reinforces the multilateral system and is a major victory for international ocean governance and the protection of the marine environment. Ireland is fully committed to working alongside our international partners to realise the Agreement’s full potential.”

The Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment, Darragh O'Brien TD said:

“Our oceans and marine environment, now more than ever, face growing threats from the impacts of pollution, climate change, and human activities. This landmark Agreement provides the global community with a strong framework to protect and restore marine biodiversity and achieve globally agreed commitments.”