 Photo by IISD/ENB | Andrés Felipe Carvajal Gómez Full opening statement to the Assembly of the International Seabed Authority TOAU Intervention Agenda Item 9, ISA Assembly, July 30, 2026, Kingston Jamaica
Thank you, Mr. President, distinguished delegates. The case for a moratorium on deep-sea mining could not be stronger. The climate crisis, nature collapse, escalating tensions and failed leadership are destroying the natural systems that make life as we know it possible. Deep-sea mining will not alleviate but worsen these crises by causing irreversible damage to deep-sea ecosystems, wiping out undiscovered species, and disrupting critical ocean functions like carbon sequestration — the consequences of which are still not fully understood. Not to mention the harrowing impacts deep-sea mining will have on sentient beings living in the ocean. Deep-sea mining meets the definition of ecocide: unlawful or wanton acts committed with knowledge that there is a substantial likelihood of severe and either widespread or long-term damage to the environment. Over the past year the threat to multilateralism has deepened. We are faced with the pursuit of unilateral mining, and companies including subcontractors standing to benefit from this rogue behaviour are based in States represented here, contravening States’ obligations under UNCLOS Articles 137 and 139. Contractors seek more influence in this Authority while some attempt to undermine it by challenging a legitimate non-compliance investigation in court. Meanwhile, new deep-sea species continue to be discovered as science attempts to understand potential impacts. We have more expert analysis revealing that deep-sea mining makes no economic sense. A growing number of financial institutions reject deep-sea mining. 45 countries now speak out against rushing an industry that science, economics and ethics warn against. As the distinguished delegate of Vanuatu forewarns, deep-sea mining will have implications to food security. Indigenous communities, youth, elders and the millions of us embracing feminine perspectives rooted in collective wellbeing are increasingly speaking out against deep-sea mining. The BBNJ Treaty has entered into force with States here bound to align ISA decisions with its conservation objectives. With all this in mind there is no justification to throw open our shared heritage to mining. It is becoming increasingly clear that deep-sea mining in the Area is not about benefitting humankind but about expanding power through seabed grabbing in our global commons. Deep-sea mining will trigger a new era of colonialism — powerful actors staking claim to the ocean floor. The ISA has an opportunity to evolve with the times to become a true steward of the deep sea. It would not be the first time that an international body adapts to reflect reality. Consider the International Whaling Commission, once created to regulate whaling, now dedicated to protecting whales. Distinguished delegates, deep-sea mining is not inevitable - it is a choice. Choosing caution now means upholding the credibility, competence and integrity of the Authority. Choose wisdom over greed and recognize the deep-sea in areas beyond borders as a sanctuary not for profit but for peace. Not for plunder but for science, discovery and collaboration. Not for the few but for all, including Life itself. The Ocean and Us calls on you to choose wisely. Thank you. Farah Obaidullah Founder & Director of The Ocean and Us [email protected] www.theoceanandus.org Comments are closed.
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