Seychelles Launches Public Engagement Campaign Ahead of High Seas Treaty
VICTORIA, Seychelles — The Department of Blue Economy has launched a week-long programme to educate the public about the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction Agreement, also known as the High Seas Treaty, which will officially enter into force on January 17, 2026. This High Seas Treaty Seychelles milestone reinforces the nation’s reputation as a champion of ocean governance.
As the first African nation and fourth worldwide to ratify this landmark agreement in March 2024, Seychelles continues to demonstrate global leadership in marine conservation and sustainable ocean resource management. The treaty establishes a legally binding framework to protect biodiversity in international waters covering nearly two-thirds of the world’s ocean.
The treaty focuses on four key pillars: marine protected areas in international waters, environmental impact assessments for high seas activities, access to and benefit-sharing of marine genetic resources, and capacity-building and technology transfer for developing states. These measures aim to ensure sustainable and equitable use of ocean resources while safeguarding ecosystems for future generations.
Seychelles is preparing to domesticate the agreement through a United Nations Environment Programme Global Environment Facility project secured by the department. This project will review national laws, policies, and institutions to align with the treaty, identifying gaps and strengthening frameworks. Additionally, Seychelles will host a regional workshop for lawyers in April, creating a platform for countries at different stages of ratification and implementation to share experiences.
Public outreach activities include pop-up exhibitions, internal sensitisation sessions, and a main public exhibition at the Natural History Museum featuring contributions from the Ministry of Environment, the Seychelles Coast Guard, and circular economy businesses. The department’s whole-of-society approach engages fishers, tourism operators, extractive industries, and the wider public.
Seychelles continues to lead by example in protecting our shared ocean heritage.
📷 Image source: Office of the President — statehouse.gov.sc
