The High Seas Treaty entered into force in January 2026, establishing a new global framework for protecting marine biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction. This landmark achievement followed years of sustained campaigning and international cooperation and marks the beginning of a new phase focused on implementation.

Becht Foundation has renewed its support for the High Seas Alliance as it works to translate the Treaty into meaningful protection for the ocean. The Alliance will promote broader ratification and support the development of effective, transparent and inclusive processes for implementing the Treaty.

The next phase of work will also help lay the foundations for establishing marine protected areas on the high seas, contributing to the global goal of protecting 30% of the ocean by 2030.

Our renewed support builds on previous grants to the High Seas Alliance during the Treaty’s negotiation and ratification. With the legal framework now in place, the priority is to ensure that it delivers lasting protection for marine life across our shared ocean.