The House of Representatives has ratified the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Convention on the Law of the Sea, specifically addressing the conservation and sustainable use of marine biological diversity of areas beyond national jurisdiction.
The decision was reached on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, during the House’s 7th Day Sitting of the 2nd Quarter of the 2nd Session. The move follows a comprehensive report submitted by the House Committee on Maritime Affairs, chaired by Maryland County District #3 Representative Hon. Austin B. Taylor, Sr., which strongly recommended Liberia’s ratification of the landmark agreement.
The convention, often referred to as the BBNJ Agreement, is a major milestone in global ocean governance. It seeks to promote the long-term conservation and sustainable use of marine biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdictions, which make up nearly two-thirds of the world’s ocean space.
Following deliberations on the House floor, plenary unanimously endorsed the ratification. Speaker Richard Nagbe Koon has accordingly instructed the Chief Clerk of the House to transmit the instrument to the Liberian Senate for concurrence, as required in legislative process.
The ratification of this international agreement reinforces Liberia’s commitment to global environmental stewardship, maritime cooperation, and the protection of marine ecosystems.
