16 April 2024 | Blue Economy.
Heads of State
Heads of Government
Excellencies
Ladies and Gentlemen
I would like to express my gratitude for granting Seychelles the platform to provide an update on the progress made towards the implementation of the High Seas treaty.
It is pleasing to note that after almost two decades in the making, a third implementing agreement under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) on the conservation and sustainable use of marine biological diversity of areas beyond national jurisdiction, has been formally adopted by consensus on 19th June 2023.
The significance of this endeavour cannot be overstated, as it represents a watershed moment in our collective commitment to protecting the health and vitality of our global ocean.
The adoption of the BBNJ Agreement rekindles hope for a healthy ocean, planet, and human life. The Agreement which balances the protection of marine biodiversity with opportunities for scientific discovery and sustainable development, signifies an advancement in global collaboration and exemplifies our collaborative effort for the well-being of the entire globe. It expresses a common vision for a future in which our ocean's biodiversity is valued, protected, and used sustainably for the benefit of current and future generations.
Subsequently, the BBNJ Treaty makes it possible to achieve SDG14 and deliver Target 3 of the Kunming-Montreal Biodiversity Framework to protect at least 30% of our seas by 2030. Its entry into force will also accelerate the accomplishment of many other SDGs - playing a vital role in climate regulation, food security and nutrition, peace and justice and many more. The race for the ratification of the BBNJ Treaty is the perfect example of how, by working together around the world, we can accelerate action to deliver the SDGs.
In the case of Seychelles, an archipelago located in the Western Indian Ocean, with 99% of its territory being covered by the ocean, as much as 90% of its socio-economic development depends on a healthy and reproductive ocean, and 50% of its exclusive economic zone is adjacent to the high seas. For the country, the aims and components of the BBNJ treaty are of critical importance as they are seen as a national priority to secure ocean sustainability for humanity.
Hence, ladies and gentlemen, I am delighted to announce that on March 13, 2024, the National Assembly of Seychelles unanimously ratified the Treaty. It is also important to note that the 30% protection of the Ocean has already been achieved by the Seychelles. We are in fact at 32%. This demonstrates Seychelles' proactive approach and commitment to international cooperation in protecting the health and sustainability of the oceans. It also shows the commitment of the country to address global challenges such as biodiversity loss and the impact of climate change on marine ecosystems.
For the people of Seychelles, the BBNJ Agreement means an opportunity for our young scientists to get involved in research projects, and access samples, databases, repositories, and digital sequence information. It is another step forward in the establishment of a comprehensive system and well-connected networks of marine protected areas, and we now have a mechanism that is more equitable in which everyone can benefit from what is called the 'common heritage of mankind'.
As we move forward, the primary task before the international community would be to support the swift ratification and domestication of the High Seas Treaty, and simultaneously advocate for its entry into force among at least 60 states. However, the effort should aspire for universal ratification and effective implementation of the treaty.
At this point, Seychelles and other developing countries require capacity-building assistance to develop domestic processes that will enable the treaty's rapid implementation.
In conclusion, the BBNJ Agreement is in the world’s interest, but effective implementation will determine its real impact on oceans, people, and the planet. It is my sincere hope that we maintain the positive momentum for the Agreement’s implementation as soon as possible for the vast, interconnected ecosystem that is our global ocean.
I thank you for your kind attention.
