Measuring the Effectiveness of International Seabed Area Management in Developing Countries

Abstract

An international seabed area is a part of a marine area existing beyond a state's national jurisdiction. Neither state nor party can claim the area based on the activity done. The principle of the common heritage of humanity applies to international seabed areas, according to Article 136 of UNCLOS 1982. Consequently, any activity in the International Seabed area should be based on the interest of all human beings. Very sophisticated technology is required to do activities in the international seabed area. This potentially leads to the developed countries' domination in area utilisation. UNCLOS 1982 mandated the International Seabed Authority to manage and coordinate the activities conducted in International Seabed Area. Such a role is critical, recalling the obligation and responsibility imposed on International Seabed Authority, as mentioned in UNCLOS 1982, to share technology and scientific knowledge with developing countries to enable them to participate in the activities in International Seabed Area. This research aims to determine the extent to which the effectiveness of International Seabed Area management coordinated by the International Seabed Authority and states with advanced technology benefit by prioritising justice for developing countries and all human beings.