In a major stride in direction of world ocean conservation, Seychelles has emerged because the pioneer African nation and the third globally to ratify the groundbreaking Excessive Seas Treaty. The ratification was achieved by a majority vote at Seychelles’ Nationwide Meeting final week, propelling the momentum for the treaty’s implementation. For the treaty to take impact, one other 57 international locations should additionally signal and ratify it.
Bernard Georges, the Chief of Authorities Enterprise, elucidated the treaty’s main goal whereas presenting it to the legislature. He emphasised the need to imagine stewardship of the world’s oceans, safeguard marine environments, and protect the integrity of undersea ecosystems and biodiversity.
As a legally binding instrument below the United Nations, the Excessive Seas Treaty is poised to designate 30 % of the globe’s oceans as protected areas, thereby safeguarding marine sources past nationwide jurisdiction. Following its formal adoption by governments in June the earlier 12 months, the treaty was made accessible for state signatures on September 20.
Seychelles, as a small island creating nation located within the Indian Ocean, anticipates substantial advantages from the treaty’s enforcement. With fisheries representing a vital financial sector, second solely to tourism, the nation grapples with the detrimental impacts of unlawful, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, primarily by international industrial fleets. Bernard Georges highlighted the urgency of addressing unsustainable fishing practices, which jeopardize fish shares and exacerbate meals insecurity dangers, notably in Seychelles, the place over 90 % of the territory includes ocean.
In a proactive stance towards maritime threats, Seychelles had beforehand joined the Fisheries Transparency Initiative (FTI) in 2017, aiming to boost transparency and inclusivity in fisheries administration. Ratifying the Excessive Seas Treaty is anticipated to fortify Seychelles’ protection towards illicit maritime actions.
Seychelles has garnered acclaim as a stalwart advocate for ocean conservation, evidenced by its proactive measures. In 2020, the nation fulfilled its dedication to guard 30 % of its marine waters, surpassing world requirements. This achievement was realized by a debt-for-nature swap facilitated by The Nature Conservancy (TNC), resulting in the designation of over 154,000 sq. miles as marine protected areas (MPAs), an expanse twice the dimensions of Nice Britain.
