Story perspectives

High Seas Treaty Set to Combat Illegal Fishing by 2026

1/3/2026

Summary

Story summary

The High Seas Treaty becomes effective January 17, 2026, to create marine protected areas and regulate deep-sea mining.
It aims to curb illegal fishing and ecological destruction in international waters.
In April 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump issued an executive order promoting seabed mineral development, conflicting with the European Commission's call for a mining ban until scientific concerns are resolved.
The Ocean COP will pursue treaty implementation amid climate-change concerns.

1 of 1

Story summary

The High Seas Treaty becomes effective January 17, 2026, to create marine protected areas and regulate deep-sea mining.
It aims to curb illegal fishing and ecological destruction in international waters.
In April 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump issued an executive order promoting seabed mineral development, conflicting with the European Commission's call for a mining ban until scientific concerns are resolved.
The Ocean COP will pursue treaty implementation amid climate-change concerns.