Image for Maritime Boundaries

Maritime Boundaries

Maritime boundaries are lines that divide the ocean areas between different countries, determining who has rights over the water, its resources, and the seabed. These boundaries include territorial seas, typically extending 12 nautical miles from a country's coast, where a nation has sovereignty. Beyond this is the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), extending up to 200 nautical miles, where countries can exploit resources like fish and oil. Establishing these boundaries helps prevent disputes and enables countries to manage and protect their marine environments effectively. Understanding these boundaries is crucial for international relations, trade, and environmental conservation.

Additional Insights

  • Image for Maritime Boundaries

    Maritime boundaries refer to the invisible lines that separate the ocean areas controlled by different countries. Just as land borders define where one country ends and another begins, maritime boundaries determine the extent of a country's rights over the sea, including fishing, navigation, and resource exploration. These boundaries can include territorial waters, typically extending 12 nautical miles from a country's coastline, and exclusive economic zones (EEZs), which can extend up to 200 nautical miles. Disputes over maritime boundaries can arise due to overlapping claims, natural resources, or geopolitical interests, making them an important aspect of international law and relations.