A global treaty that took almost two decades to create will become law early next year, enabling conservation areas.
A landmark U.N. agreement to protect marine biodiversity in the high seas has secured the final ratifications needed to enter into force, a major milestone for global ocean conservation.
Following the deposit of ratification instruments by four nations — Sri Lanka, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Sierra Leone, and Morocco — the High Seas Treaty reached the milestone of 60 nations on Friday, triggering its entry into force. The treaty will become legally effective on Jan. 17, 2026.
The U.N.-brokered treaty is close to becoming law, with 52 countries signed on and eight more needed to make it official.
Leaders argue any successful treaty must be built on partnership with and respect for Indigenous communities.
The U.N.-hosted talks failed to overcome opposition to reducing plastic production among oil and gas producers.
The latest draft text omitted any legally-binding production limits and a dedicated section on chemicals of concern.
Maria Corina Machado's award underscores Venezuela's humanitarian crisis and a split among U.N. messaging.
The U.N. chief commended the diplomatic efforts of the U.S., Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey in brokering the breakthrough.
The move is linked to the Trump administration’s "America First" policy and a U.S. cap on peacekeeping payments.
The IMF chief advises financial leaders to 'buckle up: uncertainty is the new normal and it is here to stay.'
