Bangkok, Thailand – 18th April 2025 – Greenpeace Thailand welcomes the Thai government’s approval to initiate the signing process for the Global Ocean Treaty, also known as the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Agreement. This marks a significant milestone in the country’s commitment to global ocean conservation. This decision is a crucial first step in protecting marine biodiversity in international waters and ensuring sustainable ocean governance for future generations.
The Treaty provides a framework for establishing Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) in the high seas, promoting sustainable marine resource management, and ensuring the equitable sharing of marine genetic resources. It also facilitates access to marine scientific knowledge and technology transfer, helping countries build their capacity for ocean conservation.
“We applaud the Thai government for taking this vital step toward ocean protection,” said Nichanan Tanthanawit, Project Lead for the Ocean Justice campaign at Greenpeace Southeast Asia. “The high seas are one of the last frontiers of biodiversity, and Thailand’s commitment to the Global Ocean Treaty reinforces its role in international conservation efforts. Now, we urge swift ratification and effective implementation to turn this commitment into real protection for marine life.”
Although Thailand’s waters are not directly adjacent to the high seas, protecting marine biodiversity beyond national jurisdictions is essential for the health of its own coastal ecosystems. Many key migratory species, vital for local fisheries and marine balance, rely on interconnected ocean habitats. By supporting strong ocean protections through the Global Ocean Treaty Thailand is contributing to a global network of conservation that ultimately benefits coastal communities, small-scale fishers, and marine ecosystems at home.
To date, 112 countries have signed the BBNJ Agreement, with 21 having ratified it. At least 60 ratifications are required for the treaty to enter into force, paving the way for the establishment of Marine Protected Areas in the high seas.
The approval of the BBNJ signing is only the beginning. Greenpeace Thailand calls on the government to follow through with ratification and actively contribute to regional and global efforts to implement robust protections for marine biodiversity beyond national jurisdictions. Only through collective action can we ensure a thriving ocean for future generations.
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