What is the law of the sea concerned with?

The law of the sea is fundamentally concerned with international law that governs the rights and responsibilities of states and organizations in maritime environments. This body of law addresses a wide range of issues, including territorial waters, navigation rights, the conservation of marine resources, and the protection of marine environments.

The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) is a significant framework that outlines the legal parameters for countries regarding their maritime claims and interactions. Under this international legal framework, nations have defined rights over their territorial seas, contiguous zones, exclusive economic zones (EEZs), and the continental shelf, which are essential for determining jurisdiction, resource management, and maritime security.

While national laws relating to shipping companies, local regulations for coastal navigation, and environmental protection measures from maritime pollution play important roles within their respective contexts, they each operate within or alongside the broader scope of international maritime law. Therefore, understanding the law of the sea as a comprehensive international legal framework is vital for recognizing how countries interact on maritime issues and uphold their rights and responsibilities on the oceans.