Horizon scan of possible linkages between the BBNJ Agreement and biodiversity-related MEAs

This technical report examines potential linkages between the Agreement on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ Agreement) and several biodiversity-related Multilateral Environmental Agreements (MEAs) administered by UNEP. Adopted in June 2023, the BBNJ Agreement adds a major new dimension to global ocean governance by addressing longstanding gaps in the conservation and sustainable use of marine biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction. Its effective implementation will depend on establishing cooperative relationships with existing relevant legal instruments, frameworks, and bodies at global, regional, subregional, and sectoral levels. This report draws on lessons learned from the implementation of existing UNEP-administered biodiversity MEAs to help inform discussions around the future operational and institutional arrangements under the BBNJ Agreement.