Hey Canada: It's time to ratify the High Seas Treaty 

The High Seas Treaty reached a global milestone on September 19, 2025. It reached its crucial benchmark: 60 state ratifications. This achievement triggered a 120-day countdown to the Treaty’s entry into force, paving the way for a legally binding agreement that will strengthen global ocean protection, support climate resilience, and safeguard the livelihoods of billions. The High Seas Treaty officially entered into force on January 17, 2026, becoming legally binding international law and marking a historic moment for ocean protection. 

Canada took an important step toward safeguarding biodiversity in international waters when it signed the Treaty on March 4, 2024. But signing alone is not enough. Until Canada completes full ratification, the Treaty cannot become law here, and its powerful conservation tools remain out of reach. Without ratification, Canada is unable to play a meaningful role in implementing measures to protect marine life beyond national borders — including identifying and supporting protected areas in high seas regions adjacent to Canadian waters or properly assessing and managing industrial activities proposed in neighbouring international waters. In short, until ratification happens, Canada’s commitment to protecting the high seas remains incomplete. 

Canada needs to finish the job. Tell the government that we need to join this global community to protect our shared ocean, mitigate climate breakdown and safeguard the lives and livelihoods of billions of people.  
   
Urge Canada to ratify the High Seas Treaty today.