The SeaInsights team is pleased to announce that last week, Slovenia ratified the UN Agreement on Marine Biodiversity of Areas beyond National Jurisdiction, marking a significant step forward in global ocean conservation. This agreement serves as the key international legal framework for protecting the high seas. Currently, only 15 countries have ratified the Agreement, which will come into force once at least 60 nations have completed the process.
What does the Agreement entail and why is it important?
- The Agreement aims to protect 30% of the most biologically significant areas of the oceans by 2030.
- It establishes a framework for the research and use of marine genetic resources, ensuring the fair and equitable sharing of the benefits derived from them.
- Slovenia is among the first 20 countries to have completed the internal legal processes required for ratification.
Jože Novak, Slovenia’s Minister for Natural Resources and Spatial Planning, emphasizes that, "The world must unite in coordinated ocean research and the sustainable use of ocean resources. Oceans are essential for climate regulation, biodiversity, and global prosperity. This Agreement also provides our researchers with the opportunity to contribute to international ocean research, applying their findings to the protection and sustainable management of our seas. This strengthens scientific cooperation, fosters innovation, and supports responsible management of aquatic ecosystems for future generations."
Katarina Groznik Zeiler, Director General of the Directorate for Nature at the Ministry of Natural Resources, highlights that the provisions of the Agreement will ensure the effective protection of critical ocean areas and safeguard ocean biodiversity.
Taken from:
- STA 162 2025-01-30/14:01
- Ministry of Natural Resources and Spatial Planning
