What is the law of the sea?

The law of the sea is a set of rules and regulations that govern how countries interact with each other in regards to their use of the maritime environment. This includes issues such as freedom of navigation, the rights of fishing, exploitation of marine resources, marine pollution, and the conservation of marine life. In Virginia, the law of the sea is set forth primarily by the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which is an international agreement to which many nations are a party. Under UNCLOS, all coastal states own the waters up to 12 nautical miles from their shore, including the water column and seabed. Coastal states have the right to regulate navigation and fishing in those waters, and can also control activities such as oil and gas exploration and exploitation. Beyond 12 nautical miles, the high seas are open to all, and are subject to a set of international regulations. These regulations cover areas such as safety, pollution prevention, and illegal fishing. The law of the sea is also important in international disputes over territory. Other maritime-related issues include piracy, shipwrecks, and salvage. In Virginia, the law of the sea is enforced primarily by the U.S. Coast Guard, with assistance from the state and local law enforcement.

Related FAQs

What is the scope of the Convention on the Prevention of Marine Pollution from Ships?
What is the scope of the International Convention for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas?
What is the scope of the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships?
What is the scope of the International Convention on the Control of Harmful Anti-Fouling systems?
What is a maritime lien?
What is the scope of the Convention for the Suppression of Unlawful Acts against the Safety of Maritime Navigation?
What is the scope of the Paris Memorandum of Understanding on Port State Control?
What are the remedies available under maritime law?
What is the scope of the Protocol of 2003 to the International Convention on the Establishment of an International Fund for Compensation for Oil Pollution Damage?
What is the scope of the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers?

What is the law of the sea?

Related FAQs

Related Blog Posts