Xiamen's recognised coastal management approach underpins its bid to host the High Seas Treaty secretariat. The treaty is built around four pillars: equitable sharing of deep-sea genetic resources, binding marine protected areas, mandatory environmental impact assessments, and technology transfer to developing nations.
The true significance of the High Seas Treaty lies in its institutional architecture, which will enforce the treaty. This requires a secretariat that turns policy into practice.
The contest between Brussels, Valparaiso, and Xiamen—all candidates to host the secretariat’s headquarters—is often framed as a logistical or geopolitical choice. In reality, it reflects three distinct approaches to international governance.
Xiamen's model draws on China's experience in coastal management, particularly mangrove restoration and environmental impact assessments. It emphasises participation from Global South nations and coordination with frameworks like the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and the International Seabed Authority.
As a candidate, Xiamen could strengthen treaty governance by facilitating technology transfer and capacity-building for developing countries. The competition highlights differing perspectives from Europe, Latin America, and China on ocean governance.
