International Law of the Sea
A foundation course examining maritime zones, coastal State rights and duties, navigation freedoms, marine resources, continental shelf rights and the peaceful settlement of disputes under the international law of the sea.
Academy pass mark: 80%
Public course: Anyone may study this course before applying for a Court service role.
Module 1 — The International Law of the Sea Framework
Students examine the principal sources and structure of the international law of the sea, with particular attention to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and the relationship between treaty rules and customary international law.
Module 2 — Territorial Sea and Contiguous Zone
Students examine the legal status of the territorial sea and contiguous zone, including coastal State sovereignty, jurisdiction and the rights and duties applicable to foreign vessels.
Module 3 — Exclusive Economic Zone
Students learn about the exclusive economic zone and the special legal rights and jurisdiction of the coastal State concerning natural resources and certain economic activities, alongside the rights and freedoms of other States.
Module 4 — Continental Shelf and Marine Resources
Students examine the continental shelf regime and the rights of coastal States over seabed and subsoil resources. The course also considers the legal framework for marine resource management and conservation.
Module 5 — High Seas and Navigation Freedoms
Students examine the legal status of the high seas and internationally recognised freedoms, including navigation. The course considers the duties of States and the principle that high seas freedoms must be exercised consistently with international law.
Module 6 — Maritime Boundaries and Dispute Settlement
Students are introduced to maritime boundary delimitation and peaceful methods for resolving disputes concerning maritime zones. The course considers negotiation, arbitration and judicial settlement under applicable international law.