Ocean and Politics
The vast expanse of the ocean operates under a unique set of rules and regulations, distinct from the political boundaries on land. Coastal states have jurisdiction over specific areas, extending up to 200nm from their shores. Beyond these zones lie the international waters, which are safeguarded by the United Nations Law of the Sea Convention (UNCLOS). However, despite the absence of political partitions in the open sea, there are still a variety of challenges and disputes that arise within the realm of international waters.
The multifaceted interplay of coast guards, the migration crisis, piracy, and illegal hunting each play a part in the ocean's political aspects. Each element serves as a critical component in the ongoing efforts to safeguard the world's oceans, emphasizing the need for international collaboration and diplomatic solutions to address the diverse challenges presented by the open sea.
The diagram above illustrates how UNCLOS has divided the oceans based on their proximity to land. The high seas represent international waters.