1982 Law of the Sea Treaty

The 1982 Law of the Sea Treaty, officially called the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), established comprehensive rules for how countries use and manage the world's oceans. It defines territorial waters, exclusive economic zones (EEZs), and seabed rights, promoting peaceful navigation, resource sharing, and environmental protection. The treaty aims to balance national interests with global cooperation, ensuring that maritime resources are used sustainably and disputes are resolved fairly. Many countries have adopted it to organize maritime activities, though some, like the United States, have not ratified it.