Belgium today officially ratified the landmark BBNJ Agreement during the UN Ocean Conference in Nice. The move, led by Minister of Justice and the North Sea Annelies Verlinden, reinforces Belgium’s leadership in sustainable ocean governance.
The ratification comes at a symbolic moment: the opening of the third UN Ocean Conference (UNOC 2025), where world leaders are gathering this week to discuss ways to better protect the global ocean.
The BBNJ Agreement — formally known as the Agreement on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction — aims to safeguard marine life in the high seas, which lie beyond national borders. The treaty will enter into force once 60 countries have ratified it; so far, 49 countries, including Belgium, have done so.
Annelies Verlinden, Minister of Justice and the North Sea:
"With today’s ratification, Belgium once again demonstrates its commitment to a healthy ocean. In our own North Sea, we are proving that marine protection can go hand in hand with economic activity. But the future of our ocean depends on global cooperation. We therefore call on all countries to ratify this treaty so it can enter into force."
A Leading Role
Belgium has long been a driving force in international ocean diplomacy. It is a founding member of the Blue Leaders alliance — a coalition of countries advocating for urgent action to protect the ocean from threats such as climate change, overfishing, and pollution. Belgium also played a key role during the negotiations on the BBNJ Agreement.
The country is also a major player in marine science. Belgium hosts globally recognised marine databases, such as the World Register of Marine Species, and ranks fifth in the world for the number of marine scientists per capita.
Secretariat
Belgium is also a candidate to host the BBNJ Secretariat in Brussels. With its strong diplomatic infrastructure, the presence of international institutions, and world-class scientific expertise, Belgium offers a unique platform for this global initiative.
Willem vande Voorde, Belgian Special Envoy for Climate and Environment:
"Brussels has the potential to become the beating heart of international ocean diplomacy. The city is ready to host the Secretariat, which will coordinate the treaty’s implementation around the world."
With today’s ratification, Belgium strengthens its leadership in the global effort to secure a healthy and resilient ocean.
