Antigua and Barbuda has formally completed the ratification process of the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) treaty, reinforcing its commitment to the protection of marine biodiversity and the sustainable use of ocean resources, even beyond its territorial waters.

The official document, which received legislative approval in the Parliament of Antigua and Barbuda, was symbolically deposited at the United Nations yesterday by Antigua and Barbuda’s Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador Walton Webson.

Joining him in presenting the ratified treaty to the Chief of Treaty Section of the United Nations Office of Legal Affairs David Nanopoulos was First Secretary at the Antigua and Barbuda Mission Asha Challenger, who also serves as Deputy Chair of the special UN Preparatory Commission that is leading the implementation process of the treaty.

The treaty will ensure small states like Antigua and Barbuda benefit from the protection of their marine resources, like their fish stocks, which their populations depend on to survive and thrive. It also includes mechanisms for fair compensation in instances where marine organisms are discovered and used for a commercial purpose.

“As stewards of vast marine spaces, we understand the threats posed by biodiversity loss and climate change. This treaty is a crucial step in ensuring that the benefits of marine resources are shared fairly and that the high seas remain protected for generations to come,” Ambassador Webson stated.

Challenger, in the meantime, says Antigua and Barbuda is clearly demonstrating its commitment to safeguarding marine biodiversity, strengthening resilience, and ensuring that SIDS have a voice in the sustainable use of ocean resources.

“This treaty must not only protect the high seas but also uphold the principles of fairness, transparency, and inclusivity in ocean governance. We stand ready to work with our partners to translate this agreement into meaningful action,” Challenger affirmed.

Antigua and Barbuda is only the 19th country to ratify the treaty and so Ambassador Webson is urging countries to move speedily ahead with the process as the future of many small island states are at stake.