International Borders And Boundaries Questions Medium
The concept of territorial waters refers to the area of sea or ocean that is considered to be under the jurisdiction of a particular country. It is a maritime boundary that extends from the baseline of a coastal state, usually up to 12 nautical miles (22.2 kilometers) from the coast. Within this zone, the coastal state has sovereign rights and control over the waters, the airspace above it, and the seabed and subsoil beneath it.
Territorial waters are an essential component of a country's sovereignty and are recognized under international law. They serve as a means for coastal states to exercise control and regulate various activities within their maritime boundaries, including navigation, fishing, and resource exploitation. Foreign vessels passing through these waters are generally allowed innocent passage, meaning they can traverse the area without engaging in any harmful activities or threatening the security of the coastal state.
Territorial waters are distinct from international waters, which are beyond the territorial sea and are considered part of the global commons. These international waters are open to all states and are subject to the principles of freedom of navigation and overflight, allowing vessels from any country to pass through without the need for permission from coastal states.
It is important to note that the concept of territorial waters can vary between countries, as some states may claim a larger or smaller zone depending on their specific circumstances and national interests. Additionally, there are also specific rules and regulations governing the delimitation of maritime boundaries between neighboring states, which can be a source of disputes and conflicts.