Palau Takes a Stand for Ocean Conservation
A House Joint Resolution No. 11-59-12S adopted by Olbiil Era Kelulau approves Palau’s accession to the United Nations’s Biological Biodiversity beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ), a legally binding instrument to protect and conserve marine biodiversity beyond the national jurisdiction.
After nearly 20 years of work, the BBNJ Treaty was finally established on June 19, 2023. The Federated States of Micronesia was the first country in the world to sign on to the BBNJ Treaty. Over 70 countries have signed on, with 12 Pacific island countries signing on to the treaty.
The OEK resolution will enable the Palau government to officially sign the Treaty. The resolution states, “The Republic of Palau is a longstanding champion of ocean and biodiversity conservation and seeks to collaborate with the international community to protect our planet and its natural resources.”
Protecting the Ocean’s Vast Unregulated Areas
The BBNJ Treaty’s objective is to protect the natural biodiversity in the vast areas of the ocean not under any national jurisdiction through coordination and cooperation under the United Nations system. Nearly two-thirds of the world’s ocean is not under any national jurisdiction and, therefore, not protected. The BBNJ Treaty under the UNCLOS seeks to work with UN member countries to protect the biodiversity within this vast ocean space.
Palau’s Leadership in Ocean Conservation
Palau’s decision to join the BBNJ Treaty is a significant step forward for ocean conservation. Palau has long been a leader in environmental protection and sustainability. In 2009, Palau created the world’s first shark sanctuary, and in 2015, it expanded its marine protected area to encompass 80% of its exclusive economic zone.
The Future of Ocean Conservation
The BBNJ Treaty is a critical tool for protecting the world’s oceans. With the support of countries like Palau, the treaty has the potential to make a real difference in the health of our planet.