The current Law of the Sea is sorely out of date compared to other more recent UN declarations and treaties. It is imperative to have a new vision for the protection of the high seas. Ratifying the High Seas Treaty is crucial for protecting marine wilderness, safeguarding the cultural integrity and food sovereignty of Indigenous Peoples, stopping deep sea mining, and achieving the 30x30 conservation target. The treaty offers a vital legal mechanism to establish Marine Protected Areas in international waters, addressing critical gaps in ocean protection. 

Sixty countries must ratify the High Seas Treaty by June 2025. At present, only 15 have ratified.