For decades, the high seas have been a global blind spot.

Before this treaty, only 1% of the high seas had protection under international agreements. This has changed for the better today, and we are now one step closer to the global goal of protecting at least 30% of the ocean by 2030.

Steve Trent, EJF CEO & Founder, says: “This treaty provides one of the biggest opportunities we have to protect the ocean from those who wish to destroy it for short-term profit, and to end an era of exploitation. Governments must move fast and ambitiously to turn commitments into real protections.”

We discussed the risks posed by the lack of management of this high seas area and the steps to addressing the structural drivers of overexploitation and human rights abuses in the region.

It is critical that we use all available tools to promote transparency and sustainable fisheries governance.

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This video captures the lasting impact of EJF's collaborative work with fishing communities and national fisheries stakeholder in Liberia. You can also read the CMA formation guide in the comment.

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By July 2025, EJF had successfully established seven Collaborative Management Associations (CMAs). The CMAs ensure fishers meaningful participation in fisheries management.

EJF's work in Liberia was deliberate in ensuring meaningful engagement of women in fisheries co-management.

Watch the video here👇🏽
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Women are central to effective fisheries management. They make up 60% of the fisheries workforce in Liberia. They are the backbone of coastal families and feeding million in Liberia. They handle the fish from shore to plate and finance fishing expedition.

The report shows that Liberia has made progress, fully implementing two of the principles, partially implementing seven and one not yet implemented. Read the full analysis in the report.

This has left the UK at risk of being targeted by criminal actors looking to sell their illegal catches on our shores, impacting honest fishers who must compete in the unfair market.

Now is the time for the UK take action to to bring the global fishing industry out of the shadows.

Community-led restoration brings people, science, and policy together to achieve sustainable and just outcomes. Governments must now strengthen protections and enforce laws that stop deforestation before it starts.

Watch the full film 🔗 youtu.be/VwJMvRH95lM

Alongside Hen Mpoano, as a part of our Sustainable Oceans Project, our new short documentary, “Forests of Life: Ghana’s Sankofa Journey of Mangrove Restoration”, reveals how local action and stronger policy can revive these vital ecosystems.