Chile and Belgium Launch Joint Bid for UN Biodiversity Secretariat
The two nations propose splitting headquarters between Valparaiso and Brussels for BBNJ treaty.
1Strategic Diplomatic Partnership
Chile and Belgium have officially combined their national bids to host the secretariat for the UN Agreement on Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction. This collaborative effort aims to leverage the unique strengths of both countries to secure the prestigious UN body. The joint proposal was formally announced by both nations on Friday, November 6.
2Divided Operational Structure
The proposed plan splits the secretariat's functions between two distinct geographic locations. Valparaiso, Chile, is designated to host the primary administrative functions and the treaty's financial mechanism. Meanwhile, Brussels, Belgium, would provide the necessary physical and technical infrastructure while serving as the central hub for hosting meetings of the treaty's various subsidiary bodies.
3Focus on Treaty Implementation
The BBNJ Agreement, which was adopted in 2023 following a decade of intense international negotiations, focuses on protecting marine biodiversity. By hosting the secretariat, the successful candidates will oversee the implementation of conservation measures across two-thirds of the global ocean surface. This structure ensures that both financial and technical operations remain robust.
4Facilitating Global Decision Making
The primary objective of this joint bid is to facilitate an effective and streamlined decision-making process at the first Conference of the Parties. By presenting a unified front, Chile and Belgium hope to demonstrate their commitment to the treaty's success. They believe this dual-base model offers the most efficient path for global governance.
5Upcoming Competitive Selection
The final decision regarding the location of the secretariat will be determined during the first Conference of the Parties. This significant event is scheduled to take place in New York in January 2027. The joint bid from Chile and Belgium will face direct competition from the Chinese city of Xiamen, which is also vying.
6Scope of BBNJ Agreement
The BBNJ Agreement represents a landmark effort to regulate human activities in international waters. Covering approximately two-thirds of the ocean's surface, the treaty addresses the urgent need for marine protection in areas beyond national jurisdiction. Establishing a permanent secretariat is a critical step toward ensuring these vast, shared ecosystems receive the necessary international oversight.
7Historical Context of Negotiations
The adoption of the BBNJ Agreement in 2023 marked the conclusion of ten years of complex diplomatic discussions among UN member states. This long-term process highlights the difficulty of achieving consensus on high-seas governance. The upcoming selection of a host city is the next major milestone in operationalizing this historic environmental legal framework.
8Significance of the Secretariat
The secretariat serves as the backbone for the treaty's information-exchange mechanism and administrative continuity. Its location will influence the logistical flow of international environmental policy for years to come. As the 2027 deadline approaches, the competition between the Chile-Belgium coalition and Xiamen underscores the growing global importance of marine conservation governance.