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Sea-level rise and maritime zones
28 October 2024
Type
Written Ministerial Statement
Department
Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office
TAGS
At a Glance
Issue Summary
The statement discusses the implications of sea-level rise on maritime zones under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
Action Requested
The UK Government confirms its position that once baselines and outer limits of maritime zones are established in accordance with UNCLOS, they do not need to be updated due to climate change-induced sea-level rise. However, it stresses the importance of ongoing hydrographic surveying for navigational safety.
Key Facts
- The International Law Commission (ILC) has been studying sea-level rise and its impact on international law since 2019.
- The Pacific Island Forum made a Declaration in August 2021 stating their intent to maintain maritime zones without reduction due to climate change-related sea-level rise.
- UNCLOS does not expressly require States to update baselines or outer limits of maritime zones once established.
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Summary accuracy