QCM : Maritime Zones and Global Power Dynamics — 9 questions

Explication

A maritime zone is a designated area of the sea that has specific legal and governance purposes, extending from a country's coast to various distances offshore, and is governed by international law, as defined by UNCLOS.

Explication

UNCLOS provides a comprehensive legal framework for maritime boundaries, resource management, and dispute resolution, which helps regulate and facilitate peaceful use of the oceans. It does not prohibit military activities, restrict fishing solely to coastal states, or eliminate disputes altogether.

Explication

UNCLOS was adopted in 1982, establishing the legal framework for maritime zones and international ocean law.

Explication

An EEZ extends up to 200 nautical miles from the baseline, giving the coastal state rights to exploit resources, unlike territorial seas which extend only 12 nautical miles.

Explication

High Seas are beyond national jurisdiction and are governed by international law under UNCLOS, facilitating free navigation and resource exploration for all countries.

Explication

Overlapping EEZ claims are often driven by valuable resources and strategic interests, leading to disputes in areas like the South China Sea, despite legal frameworks like UNCLOS.

Explication

The Continental Shelf provides rights over the seabed resources up to 350 nautical miles from the coast, though claims are subject to international review and agreements.

Explication

These challenges include overlapping claims and the difficulty of resolving disputes, which are common issues in maritime governance as outlined in the sheet.

Explication

The Arctic region is specifically noted as a hotspot for resource competition and geopolitical tensions involving maritime zone claims, especially as ice melts and new shipping routes open.