“The Marine Biological Diversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Treaty marks a shift from fragmented to rules-based governance of the high seas”. Explain this shift. Analyse its likely impact on India’s maritime interests.
Kartavya Desk Staff
Topic: Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment
Topic: Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment
Q6. “The Marine Biological Diversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Treaty marks a shift from fragmented to rules-based governance of the high seas”. Explain this shift. Analyse its likely impact on India’s maritime interests. (10 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: DTE
Why the question The BBNJ treaty has recently secured the required ratifications and will enter into force in 2026, making it a significant development in global ocean governance with direct implications for India’s maritime interests. Key Demand of the question The question asks you to explain how the BBNJ treaty represents a shift from fragmented governance to rules-based governance of the high seas, and then analyse its likely impact on India’s maritime and strategic interests. Structure of the Answer Introduction: Briefly highlight the inadequacy of earlier sectoral governance of high seas and situate the BBNJ treaty as a landmark under UNCLOS. Body Explain the shift: Point out how the treaty introduces unified governance, MPAs, EIAs, and benefit-sharing mechanisms. Analyse India’s maritime interests: Show its implications for India’s blue economy, conservation responsibilities, maritime security, and diplomatic positioning. Conclusion: End with a forward-looking statement on how India can leverage BBNJ for sustainable development and leadership in global commons governance.
Why the question The BBNJ treaty has recently secured the required ratifications and will enter into force in 2026, making it a significant development in global ocean governance with direct implications for India’s maritime interests.
Key Demand of the question The question asks you to explain how the BBNJ treaty represents a shift from fragmented governance to rules-based governance of the high seas, and then analyse its likely impact on India’s maritime and strategic interests.
Structure of the Answer
Introduction:
Briefly highlight the inadequacy of earlier sectoral governance of high seas and situate the BBNJ treaty as a landmark under UNCLOS.
• Explain the shift: Point out how the treaty introduces unified governance, MPAs, EIAs, and benefit-sharing mechanisms.
• Analyse India’s maritime interests: Show its implications for India’s blue economy, conservation responsibilities, maritime security, and diplomatic positioning.
Conclusion:
End with a forward-looking statement on how India can leverage BBNJ for sustainable development and leadership in global commons governance.