Combating Maritime Crimes: Legal Challenges under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea
Keywords:
Enforcement, Environmental Law, Flag State, Human Trafficking, Illegal Fishing, International Cooperation, Jurisdiction, Maritime Security, Piracy, Transnational CrimeAbstract
This article examines the legal challenges posed by maritime crimes under the framework of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). The oceans, while vital for global trade and security, have increasingly become a site for criminal activities such as piracy, illegal fishing, human trafficking, and environmental crimes. The research focuses on the efficacy of UNCLOS in addressing these crimes, analyzing jurisdictional complexities and enforcement limitations. A doctrinal legal research method is employed, reviewing relevant legal instruments and case studies of maritime crimes. Key findings reveal that, while UNCLOS provides a comprehensive framework for regulating maritime activities, enforcement mechanisms, particularly in international waters, are weak. Jurisdictional gaps, flag state responsibilities, and the lack of resources among coastal states further hinder the fight against these crimes. The study highlights the importance of international cooperation and suggests the need for stronger enforcement provisions and capacity-building initiatives to address the growing security threats in global maritime spaces
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