In 2023, the UN adopted the High Seas Agreement (Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction – BBNJ), a treaty on the protection of biodiversity in areas of the oceans beyond the national jurisdiction of countries. The agreement introduces new tools to combat climate change, biodiversity loss and environmental pollution.
Ukraine is a landlocked country, but this Agreement is important for us as well – for the development of science and private sector industries (shipping and fishing on the high seas; transport networks; pharmaceutical and chemical industries).
The signing of the Agreement by Ukraine will demonstrate to the EU the pro-European position of our country and support for European values. The entry into force of the Agreement will strengthen Ukraine’s role in the Convention on the Law of the Sea, which is necessary to counter Russia’s ambitions in maritime disputes.
Ukraine has not yet decided whether to sign the Agreement. The participants of the briefing will discuss why the High Seas Agreement is beneficial for Ukraine even in times of war.
