The Cook Islands has concluded its participation in the third session of the Preparatory Commission (PrepComm 3) for the Agreement on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ).
The meeting, held under the auspices of the United Nations, delivered mixed outcomes across key agenda items. Notable progress was achieved in advancing institutional arrangements, including the Global Environment Facility (GEF) Memorandum of Understanding, the Voluntary Trust Fund, the Special Fund, and the Clearing House Mechanism. These elements are expected to progress with limited contention into the first Conference of the Parties (COP1), scheduled for January 2027.
However, several substantive matters remain under negotiation, including financial rules, subsidiary bodies, and the structure and functions of the Secretariat. These items will continue to be refined through intersessional work approved during the meeting.
The Cook Islands engaged in discussions throughout the two-week session, participating in coordination meetings with the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS), Pacific Small Island Developing States (PSIDs), and Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) members. Through these platforms, the Cook Islands indicated unified regional positions and supported collective advocacy on key issues of importance to Small Island Developing States.
The Government acknowledges the leadership and coordination efforts of AOSIS in navigating complex negotiations and reaffirms its commitment to ensuring that the BBNJ Agreement delivers meaningful outcomes for ocean governance, equity, and sustainable development.
Work is ongoing at the national level to review legislative and policy frameworks to support future ratification and implementation of the Agreement. Click here to read how the Cook Islands is advancing BBNJ readiness
