Press Release: Swell of youth voices call on UK government to ratify the High Seas Treaty

20 youth groups from across the UK, including UK Youth for Nature, have written to Prime Minister Keir Starmer, urging immediate action to protect the ocean by ratifying the High Seas Treaty.

The letter was illustrated with youth artwork and sent ahead of an expected debate in the House of Commons on Monday 2 February, where MPs are set to continue discussions on the steps required for the UK to implement the High Seas Treaty in domestic law.

The High Seas Treaty entered into force on 17 January 2026, after sufficient countries ratified the agreement internationally. It marks the first legally binding global framework to protect marine biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction, including the creation of marine protected areas and the requirement for environmental impact assessments for activities on the high seas. Despite signing the agreement, the UK has yet to ratify the treaty, leaving it unable to fully participate in decisions on its implementation.

A healthy ocean plays a vital role in sustaining life on Earth. It absorbs around 30% of human-generated carbon dioxide emissions and captures approximately 90% of the excess heat caused by greenhouse gas emissions.

At the same time, almost 90% of global marine fish stocks are now fully exploited or overfished. Nearly two-thirds of the ocean lies beyond national borders, where protections remain limited and exploitation is increasing.

The High Seas Treaty represents a historic opportunity to reverse this trend and reflects growing global momentum to safeguard marine ecosystems beyond national waters.

In their letter, young people from across the UK call on the government to ratify the High Seas Treaty without delay and to work collaboratively with other nations to ensure its swift and effective implementation, securing a healthier ocean for present and future generations.

Robson Peisley, Key Organiser at UK Youth for Nature said: “As young people, we'll directly inherit the actions taken by governments today. We care deeply about our oceans, and want to live in a world with thriving marine ecosystems. The High Seas Treaty presents an important opportunity to protect these ecosystems and restore them for generations to come. Our oceans are integral to our day to day lives, sequestering carbon, producing the oxygen we breathe, and providing food and livelihoods for people across the world. I urge Keir Starmer and the UK Government to ratify the High Seas Treaty, and showcase the environmental leadership we pride ourselves on at the global stage.” 

Alan Munro, Founder & Director of Young Sea Changers Scotland said: “Young people across the UK are looking to the government for leadership as our ocean faces a growing crisis. The High Seas Treaty is an urgent, once-in-a-generation opportunity to protect marine life beyond national borders. By ratifying it, the UK can show itself to be a real global leaders for our ocean and for future generations.”