Leticia Carvalho Elected New ISA Secretary General

Leticia Carvalho of Brazil has been elected as the new secretary general of the International Seabed Authority (ISA), succeeding Michael Lodge after a decisive vote of 79 to 34. Her appointment comes amid rising calls for a moratorium on deep-sea mining due to environmental concerns, with 32 member states advocating for a pause until comprehensive regulations are established. Carvalho has emphasized that no mining applications should proceed until such rules are in place, potentially signaling a shift in the ISA's approach to seabed mining. The Minerals Company from Canada is expected to apply for the first deep-sea mining license later this year, raising concerns about the lack of a regulatory framework. Environmental advocates warn that deep-sea mining threatens ocean biodiversity, while proponents argue it is essential for transitioning to green technology. The ISA's session concluded without consensus on regulations, leaving the future of deep-sea mining uncertain.