Solomon Islands has today made history at the United Nations by becoming one of the first
countries to sign up for the Agreement on the Conservation and Sustainable use of Maritime
Biological Diversity of Areas beyond National Jurisdiction, BBNJ.
BBNJ is an international legal framework/treaty that compliments existing international
frameworks (UNCLOS, Convention on Biodiversity) with a targeted focus on conservation and
sustainable use of marine biological diversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction.
Prime Minister Hon. Manasseh Sogavare MP, on behalf of the government and people of
Solomon Islands stood out amongst world leaders by being among the first to sign the landmark
Agreement proclaiming in no uncertain terms a serious leap towards the protection and
sustainable use of Maritime Biological resources beyond our national borders.
What does this mean for Solomon Islanders?
As a large ocean state where 98 percent is Ocean, the government is ensuring ocean governance
and sustainable use of the ocean beyond our national borders, as well as embracing the ‘polluter pay.
principle’.
It is a breakthrough for the protection and conservation of our ocean areas beyond borders.
With the signing of the high seas treaty, Solomon Islands is better positioned to promote
effective ocean governance, conserve its marine biodiversity, and ensure the sustainable use of
its marine resources.
The agreement also supports the country’s commitments to tackling the climate crisis.
In addition, the Agreement establishes international standards that compel states (parties) to
responsibly use areas beyond national jurisdictions.
Signing up for the BBNJ agreement also offers Solomon Islands an opportunity to strengthen
multilateral coordination and promote international cooperation towards global conservation
efforts.
In becoming a signatory to the Agreement, Solomon Islands commits to the Treaty in principle,
while also considering putting in place mechanisms (in line with our National Ocean Policy) and
legislations to implement the treaty when the Solomon Islands ratifies the treaty.
(OPMC Press)
