20 
 
targets, with the ability to ratchet up action if needed. These reviews should be 
based on an independent , science-based gap-analysis and foresight proces s, with 
common headline indicators for all Parties. 
 An enabling framework to bring the ambition to life, across areas such as 
finance, capacity, research, innovation and technology.  
 Fair and equitable sharing of the benefits  from the use of genetic resour ces 
linked to biodiversity.  
 A principle of equality . This includes respect for the rights and the full and 
effective participation of indigenous peoples and local communities. There should 
be an inclusive approach with participation of all stakeholders, i ncluding women, 
youth, civil society, local authorities, the private sector, academia and scientific 
institutions. 
4.2. Using external action to promote the EU’s ambition 
4.2.1. International Ocean Governance 
In line with the International Ocean Governance agenda 77, the EU will support the 
conclusion of an ambitious legally binding agreement on marine biological diversity of 
areas beyond national jurisdiction  (BBNJ) by the end of 2020. It must set clear global 
procedures for identifying, designating and effectively managing ecologically 
representative marine protected areas in the high seas. It should be ratified and 
implemented as quickly as possible. 
The EU should also use all of its diplomatic leverage and outreach capacities to help 
broker agreement on the design ation of three vast Marine Protected Areas in the 
Southern Ocean78, two of which were co -proposed by the EU in East Antarctica and in 
the Weddell Sea. If agreed, this would constitute one of the biggest acts of nature 
protection in history.  
Work will conti nue with partner countries and regional organisations to put in place 
measures to protect and sustainably use sensitive maritime ecosystems and species, 
including in areas beyond national jurisdiction, with a focus on marine biodiversity 
hotspots. The EU s hould continue supporting Small Island Developing States and other 
relevant partner countries to participate in meetings of regional and global organisations 
and bodies, and to implement relevant international commitments and regulations.  
The EU will appl y zero tolerance towards illegal, unreported and unregulated 
fishing and will combat overfishing, including through WTO negotiations on a global 
agreement to ban harmful fisheries subsidies.  
In international negotiations, the EU should advocate that marine minerals in the 
international seabed area cannot be exploited before the effects of deep -sea mining on 
the marine environment, biodiversity and human activities have been sufficiently 
researched, the risks are understood and the technologies and operational practices are 
able to demonstrate no serious harm to the environment,  in line with the precautionary 
                                                 
77 International ocean governance agenda: an agenda for the future (JOIN(2016) 49). 
78 In the framework of the Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources.