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

The Law of the Sea Tribunal, or ITLOS, is an international tribunal that addresses disputes about the interpretation and application of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). The tribunal is based in Hamburg, Germany, and it provides a mechanism for peaceful resolution of legal disputes or disputes of interests between states (or between states and international organizations) that arise from the implementation of the Convention. The Convention and the Tribunal enable all parties to maintain effective control over their coastal waters, and to ensure freedom of navigation. The Law of the Sea enshrines significant rights and obligations for all countries, including North Carolina, and the Tribunal is established to resolve disputes between states or between states and international organizations. The Tribunal has jurisdiction over disputes with regard to the interpretation and application of the Convention, and it may also provide advisory opinions on matters related to the Convention, upon request. The Tribunal is composed of 21 independent elected judges from different countries, who serve for a nine-year term. It hears cases concerning, inter alia, the delimitation of maritime boundaries, the exploitation of resources and the protection of the marine environment. The Tribunal is chaired by a President, and the other members of the tribunal are vice-presidents, members, and ad hoc judges. The verdicts of the Tribunal are final and binding on all parties to a dispute, and all states are obliged to comply with the decisions of the Tribunal. North Carolina may also bring cases before the Tribunal if it wishes to resolve a dispute in accordance with international law.

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

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