What is the high seas treaty?

The high seas treaty could be law by the end of the year, affording protection to marine life in the vast swathes of ocean that belong to no one.

The treaty was adopted by UN member states in June 2023. It has been ratified by 31 nations plus the European Union, and comes into force 120 days after its 60th ratification.

But at the UN Ocean Conference this week, hosts France said around 50 countries have ratified the pact, bringing it within reach of enactment.

The United States signed the treaty in 2023 under Joe Biden but is not expected to ratify it while Donald Trump is president.

Here are the key points of the treaty text:

- International waters -

The treaty covers international waters, which fall outside the jurisdiction of any single state, and account for more than 60 percent