Pakistan Signs UN BBNJ Treaty for Marine Biodiversity Protection

Pakistan has officially signed a landmark international agreement under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), aiming to ensure the sustainable use and protection of marine biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction (ABNJ).

The treaty, formally titled the Agreement on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ Agreement), was signed by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar at the UN Headquarters in New York. The development marks a major step forward in global ocean governance and reflects Pakistan’s strong diplomatic engagement in environmental matters.

Pakistan’s Key Role in BBNJ Negotiations

The Foreign Office (FO) confirmed that Pakistan played a pivotal leadership role during the negotiation process. It is important to note that the country acted as the chairman of the Group of 77 and China during the two most important negotiation sessions in 2022 promotion rights and interests of developing countries.

“Pakistan consistently emphasized equitable access to marine genetic resources, capacity-building, and the fair transfer of marine technologies—principles rooted in the idea of the oceans being the common heritage of humankind,” stated the FO.

Scope and Objectives of the BBNJ Agreement

The agreement provides a legal framework to govern the vast oceanic spaces that lie beyond any single nation’s jurisdiction, often referred to as the “high seas.” With increasing pressure on marine ecosystems due to overfishing, pollution, and climate change, the BBNJ Agreement is a timely initiative aimed at preserving global biodiversity for present and future generations.

Key areas addressed under the treaty include:

• Marine Genetic Resources (MGRs): Ensuring fair and equitable sharing of benefits derived from genetic material found in marine organisms.

• Area-Based Management Tools (ABMTs): Establishing marine protected areas and other spatial measures to safeguard ecosystems.

• Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs): Mandating thorough environmental evaluations before undertaking potentially harmful activities in ABNJ.

• Capacity-Building and Technology Transfer: Supporting developing countries with skills, infrastructure, and scientific knowledge to manage marine biodiversity effectively.

The agreement also encompasses several cross-cutting mechanisms. These include the formation of a Conference of the Parties (COP) to oversee implementation, a Clearing-House Mechanism to facilitate data exchange, and a dedicated secretariat for administrative support.

A Step Towards Equitable Ocean Governance

Pakistan’s endorsement of the BBNJ Agreement is aligned with its long-term commitment to environmental sustainability, multilateral diplomacy, and the promotion of global equity.

“This signing reaffirms Pakistan’s dedication to the sustainable stewardship of marine resources and upholding international cooperation under the UNCLOS framework,” the Foreign Office added.

After the ratification of at least 60 countries, the BBNJ Agreement should take place. Once operational, it will be a cornerstone of international efforts to address the biodiversity crisis unfolding in the world’s oceans.