The ocean is threatened by climate change, overexploitation, pollution, habitat loss, and other pressures as well as their cumulative impacts. Over 60% of the ocean that lies in areas beyond national jurisdiction (ABNJ) is particularly vulnerable. Many are seeking practical measures to make the ocean more resilient. This paper evaluates how key ingredients for enhancing resilience might be applied to ABNJ management and governance. In doing so, it aims to enhance the resilience of both marine ecosystems as well as their governance systems. It also throws light on how the emerging treaty on the conservation and sustainable use of marine biodiversity of areas beyond national jurisdiction (BBNJ) could contribute to it. A BBNJ treaty based on principles and approaches to safeguard resilience could help marine ecosystems cope with the growing anthropogenic threats and improve the effectiveness of management activities. |
