Environmental Politics Ocean Governance Questions Long
The role of coastal states in ocean governance is crucial as they have a direct stake in the management and protection of the marine environment. Coastal states are defined as those countries that have a coastline along the ocean or sea, and they possess certain rights and responsibilities in relation to the ocean and its resources.
One of the primary roles of coastal states in ocean governance is the establishment and enforcement of laws and regulations within their territorial waters. Territorial waters extend up to 12 nautical miles from the baseline of a coastal state and are considered part of its sovereign territory. Coastal states have the authority to regulate activities such as fishing, shipping, and resource extraction within these waters. They can set quotas and restrictions on fishing to ensure sustainable practices, enforce safety and environmental standards for shipping, and manage the extraction of resources such as oil and gas.
Coastal states also play a significant role in the management of the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), which extends up to 200 nautical miles from the baseline. Within this zone, coastal states have special rights and responsibilities for the exploration and exploitation of natural resources, both living and non-living. They have the authority to regulate activities such as fishing, mining, and energy production, and can enter into agreements with other states or international organizations for the sustainable management of these resources.
Furthermore, coastal states have a responsibility to protect and conserve the marine environment within their jurisdiction. They are required to take measures to prevent pollution, including the discharge of harmful substances into the ocean, and to protect and restore marine ecosystems. Coastal states can establish marine protected areas (MPAs) to safeguard vulnerable habitats and species, and they can collaborate with other states and organizations to address transboundary environmental issues.
In addition to their regulatory role, coastal states also have a political and diplomatic role in ocean governance. They participate in international negotiations and forums to shape global policies and agreements related to the ocean. Coastal states can advocate for the adoption of sustainable practices, the protection of marine biodiversity, and the equitable sharing of marine resources. They can also engage in bilateral or multilateral agreements with neighboring states to address shared challenges and promote cooperation in the management of shared marine resources.
Overall, the role of coastal states in ocean governance is multifaceted and essential. They have the authority to regulate activities within their territorial waters and EEZ, the responsibility to protect and conserve the marine environment, and the opportunity to shape global policies and agreements. By effectively fulfilling these roles, coastal states can contribute to the sustainable and equitable governance of the world's oceans.