In the framework of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, Belgium reaffirmed its strong commitment to ocean protection. At the same time, our country campaigned for Brussels’ candidacy as host city of the future Secretariat of the BBNJ Agreement – also known as the High Seas Treaty.
On 19 September, a historic milestone was reached: the threshold of sixty ratifications required for the Agreement on Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) to enter into force was crossed. The treaty will officially take effect on 17 January 2026. Minister of Justice and the North Sea Annelies Verlinden congratulated the international community on this important milestone in the global fight for ocean protection.
Belgian initiatives: from science to inclusive cooperation
During the event “From Nice to New York: Activating the High Seas Treaty”, Belgium announced an investment of €3 million from the National Recovery and Resilience Plan. This funding will be used to digitally map marine biodiversity through environmental DNA (eDNA). This innovative method makes it possible to analyze DNA from water samples without capturing or killing animals. Citizens from across Europe will work together with scientists to map the richness of marine life. All collected data will be directly integrated into the Ocean Biodiversity Information System (OBIS), hosted by Belgium.
In addition, our country confirmed a substantial contribution to the BBNJ Trust Fund, which supports representatives from developing countries, small island states, and other vulnerable nations, enabling them to actively participate in the BBNJ process.
Why Brussels?
In New York, Belgium highlighted Brussels’ strengths as a potential seat of the BBNJ Secretariat. Minister Verlinden emphasized the unique combination of diplomatic, logistical, and scientific assets:
- Diplomatic hub: Brussels hosts more than 180 diplomatic missions and offers excellent international connections by air and rail, complemented by a network of sustainable mobility options.
- Suitable infrastructure: The city provides safe and independent facilities for international institutions and has more than 20,000 hotel rooms close to key organizations.
- Scientific expertise: Belgium combines diplomatic clout with leading marine research institutions, such as the Flanders Marine Institute (VLIZ), and global marine databases that provide a scientific basis for evidence-based ocean governance. Both the Ocean Biodiversity Information System and the World Register of Marine Species are based in Ostend.
Brussels as the diplomatic heart for the ocean
“Belgium is ready to play its part by offering Brussels as a diplomatic heart for the ocean. A place where science meets policy, and where all nations find their voice,” said Minister Verlinden.
