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.

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What is the law of the sea?

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