The "Agreement on the Preservation of the Confidentiality of Data concerning Deep Seabed Areas" is a multilateral agreement designed to protect the confidentiality and sensitive nature of data related to deep seabed areas. These areas typically refer to the regions of the ocean floor beyond the continental shelf, encompassing the vast depths and resources that lie beneath the oceans.
This agreement establishes a framework and procedures for the preservation of data confidentiality. It aims to prevent unauthorized access, use, or disclosure of information that is collected, generated, or acquired during activities related to the exploration and exploitation of deep seabed resources.
Within the context of this agreement, data concerning deep seabed areas includes information about the geological, geophysical, hydrographic, and biological features, as well as data related to mineral resources or any other valuable resources present in these areas.
The agreement mandates that parties involved in activities related to deep seabed exploration and exploitation should take necessary measures to ensure the confidentiality of the acquired data. These measures may include implementing strict access controls, encryption protocols, secure storage, and non-disclosure agreements. It also requires parties to retain these measures even after the termination of their activities involving deep seabed areas.
By preserving the confidentiality of data concerning deep seabed areas, the agreement aims to encourage scientific research, exploration, and sustainable exploitation of marine resources, while also safeguarding the intellectual property rights and proprietary information of the parties involved.
