The Parliament of the Maldives has approved the Agreement under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea concerning the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ Treaty). The 19th Parliament approved accession to the treaty with 48 votes in favor.
The Cabinet recommended that the Maldives join the BBNJ Treaty, and President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu presented the treaty to Parliament for approval on February 29 this year. The treaty aims to protect and conserve marine life and areas in the High Seas, as well as to facilitate sustainable use.
The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) adopted the BBNJ Treaty. Following deliberations on a proposal from the Ministry of Climate Change, Environment, and Energy, the Cabinet advised the President to accede to the treaty.
The purpose of the treaty is to promote the conservation, preservation, and sustainable use of biodiversity and territorial waters in the High Seas. It represents a significant international effort to safeguard marine ecosystems. For the Maldives, a small island nation, participation in the treaty is vital for enhancing the protection and sustainable management of its maritime domains.
Currently, the BBNJ Treaty has 83 signatory nations.