This agreement marks a historic moment in global ocean governance, paving the way for the protection and sustainable management of our planet's largest ecosystem. UNESCO will continue to work alongside its Member States to ensure that this treaty is science-based and equitable, so that all nations can contribute to and benefit from the ocean's stewardship.
Audrey AzoulayUNESCO Director-General
Marine Protected Areas: A Network for the Future
Scientists warn that at least 30% of the ocean must be highly protected by 2030 to halt biodiversity loss and climate disruption. For the first time, nations can propose and manage sanctuary zones beyond their borders, supported by conservation science and robust management plans. UNESCO's action, through World Heritage marine sites, biosphere reserves, and marine geoparks, already safeguards more than 4.1 million km² - the size of the Mediterranean Sea - demonstrating how global mechanisms are vital to biodiversity preservation.
Science and Equity: Foundations of the BBNJ Framework
At the heart of the Agreement is a rigorous reliance on the best available science, as well as Indigenous knowledge system. The treaty establishes a Scientific and Technical Body to guide decision-making and a Clearing-House Mechanism that ensures open access to data and resources. Its effectiveness will depend on bridging persistent knowledge gaps, improving global monitoring, and aligning with existing treaties to avoid fragmentation. The BBNJ puts equity into practice, empowering countries with limited infrastructure to participate meaningfully in research and benefit-sharing.
The Ocean Decade: Building a momentum
The UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021-2030), led by UNESCO's Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC), has laid the foundation for a new era in ocean governance. Projects such as Seabed 2030-mapping 26% of the ocean floor today, compared to just 5% in 2017-are generating the knowledge and tools needed to implement the BBNJ Agreement. Complementary initiatives, led by UNESCO, like the Ocean Biodiversity Information System (OBIS), the Ocean Data and Information System (ODIS), and the OceanTeacher Global Academy provide interoperable data and training opportunities that directly support the Clearing-House Mechanism.
Ocean Education: Transforming Relations with Nature
Ocean education is emerging as a game-changer for conservation, and UNESCO stands at the forefront. At the 2025 UN Ocean Conference, UNESCO launched hands-on programmes like "blue schools" in Africa, the Caribbean, and the Pacific, bringing local marine science to classrooms. With the SEA BEYOND initiative and partners like Prada, over 35,000 students in 56 countries have received ocean literacy training. Brazil's move to embed ocean education in its national curriculum is just the start; UNESCO's Ocean Literacy Toolkit now supports thousands of schools globally, nurturing a generation that will understand, love, and protect the ocean. UNESCO's Director-General, Audrey Azoulay, reminded the world: "Teaching about the ocean is the most powerful tool for transforming how people relate to nature."
A Milestone for the Ocean-and Humanity
The BBNJ Agreement is more than a legal achievement; it is a lifeline for marine ecosystems and future generations. It unites nations to restore ocean health, crucial for biodiversity, climate stability, food security, and human well-being. With its entry into force, States must act together-closing knowledge gaps, regulating high-seas activity, integrating science and traditional wisdom, and sharing the rewards of ocean innovation more fairly than ever before.
This treaty demonstrates what multilateralism can achieve when nations unite for the common good. The ocean is the heartbeat of our planet; with the BBNJ Agreement, we provide the protection, knowledge, and stewardship it urgently needs.
About UNESCO
With 194 Member States, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization contributes to peace and security by leading multilateral cooperation on education, science, culture, communication and information. Headquartered in Paris, UNESCO has offices in 54 countries and employs over 2300 people. UNESCO oversees more than 2000 World Heritage sites, Biosphere Reserves and Global Geoparks; networks of Creative, Learning, Inclusive and Sustainable Cities; and over 13 000 associated schools, university chairs, training and research institutions, with a global network of 200 National Commissions. Its Director-General is Audrey Azoulay.
"Since wars begin in the minds of men, it is in the minds of men that the defenses of peace must be constructed" - UNESCO Constitution, 1945.
