What is the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS)?

The International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS) is an international legal body located in Hamburg, Germany. It was created in 1996 by the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea to deal with disputes between states concerning the use of the oceans. ITLOS is composed of 21 Independent Judges from around the world, who serve 9-year terms. This court has authority to settle disputes according to the Law of the Sea and to set boundaries for activities on the seas. California is party to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and thereby is under the jurisdiction of ITLOS. This means that Californian state and federal laws must adhere to the policies set by the court. Additionally, Californians can bring their cases to ITLOS if they believe their rights of the sea are being violated. Cases in ITLOS can involve a number of issues such as ocean pollution, fishing rights, freedom of navigation, and exploitation of natural resources. California has had a few cases brought to ITLOS, dealing with fishing and oil exploitation in the North Pacific Ocean. Overall, the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea is an international court that can adjudicate disputes between states and individuals concerning matters relating to the law of the sea. California, as a signatory to the UNCLOS, must adhere to the decisions of ITLOS.

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What is the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS)?

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