Must-Read Articles Archives

Sovereign Immunity at Sea Under UNCLOS: Meaning, Boundaries, and Operational Use

January 10, 2026

Sovereign immunity at sea shields warships and qualifying government vessels from foreign enforcement measures, ensuring disputes are resolved through government to government channels. UNCLOS provisions and ITLOS rulings confirm that coercive actions—such as detention or seizure—are unlawful, while lawful remedies include departure orders and consent-based port controls.

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EEZ Due Regard and Peaceful Purposes Explained

January 7, 2026

UNCLOS permits navigation, overflight, and related operational uses in the EEZ, but conditions them through two binding constraints: the duty of due regard to coastal State rights and Charter consistent peaceful conduct. Case law and safety conventions reinforce that disciplined planning, documentation, and non coercive execution are essential to lawful maritime operations.

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The 2016 South China Sea Arbitral Award: Clarifying the Legal Limits of Maritime Claims

January 4, 2026

The 2016 South China Sea Arbitral Tribunal Award remains a landmark in international maritime law. It rejected sweeping historic claims, clarified the legal status of maritime features, affirmed sovereign rights within EEZs, and underscored States’ binding obligations to protect the marine environment under UNCLOS.

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Rescue Is Not Optional: The Duty to Render Assistance Under UNCLOS

January 2, 2026

Rescue at sea is not optional—it is a legal duty under UNCLOS Article 98. Masters must render assistance when persons are in distress, subject to safety and reasonable expectations, while States must ensure effective SAR services and coordination. Real world cases like MV Tampa and Maersk Etienne show why timely State action is critical to completing rescues lawfully and safely.

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The Basic Principles of the Law of the Sea Convention (UNCLOS)

January 1, 2026

UNCLOS provides the global framework for lawful activity at sea, balancing coastal State authority with shared maritime freedoms. From baselines and territorial sovereignty to EEZ rights, continental shelf entitlements, and environmental protection, it disciplines maritime competition and ensures stability in ocean governance.

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UNCLOS: A Brief and Modern Explanation

January 1, 2026

UNCLOS, known as the constitution for the oceans, defines rights and responsibilities across maritime zones and features. From territorial seas and exclusive economic zones to passage regimes and dispute resolution, it provides the framework that keeps the seas orderly, stable, and governed by law rather than power alone.

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