new era for protecting our shared ocean: the BBNJ Agreement enters into force
NOELLA MBOTIJI, Dr YSAAC CHAVELY MBILE NGUEMA
January 14
The ocean covers more than two-thirds of the planet and is rich in marine life. Beneath its surface lie vast, unseen ecosystems that are threatened by increasing pressures from climate change, biodiversity loss, pollution, overfishing, and other human activities. To address these pressures, Member States adopted a legally binding instrument under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) on the conservation and sustainable use of marine biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction (ABNJ Agreement) on June 19, 2023.
The Agreement was later opened for signature on September 20, 2023, and remained open until September 20, 2025.
January 17, 2026, marked the official entry into force of the BBNJ Agreement—a significant milestone in the conservation of ocean resources in areas beyond national jurisdiction (ABNJ). Signed by 145 States and ratified by 85 as of February 13, 2026, the Agreement fills a long-standing gap in ocean governance and strengthens international cooperation for the sustainable use of ocean resources.
The Agreement addresses four key areas: the fair and equitable sharing of benefits from marine genetic resources; the establishment of area-based management tools, including marine protected areas; environmental impact assessments; and capacity building and the transfer of marine technology. Through these pillars, the BBNJ Agreement promotes cross-sectoral cooperation as a collective responsibility to protect, preserve, and sustainably use the ocean, restore its health, and strengthen its resilience for future generations.
“The Agreement fills a critical governance gap to secure a resilient and productive ocean for all while urging all States to join its full implementation,” said the UN Secretary-General, António Guterres.
Cameroon’s position on the BBNJ Agreement
Cameroon signed the Agreement on May 2, 2025, but has not yet ratified it. For developing countries like Cameroon, the BBNJ Agreement offers an opportunity to strengthen their scientific, technical, and legal capacities, benefit from marine genetic resources, and participate equitably in the governance of the high seas. Rapid ratification and strategic implementation, with the collaboration of organisations such as AMCO, will enable Cameroon to take full advantage of this new international instrument, while contributing to the protection of the oceans for future generations.
