The Law of the Sea (UNCLOS)

The Law of the Sea, established by the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), is an international framework that defines the rights and responsibilities of nations regarding how they use the world's oceans. It sets rules for navigation, resource exploration, and environmental protection, including territorial waters (up to 12 nautical miles from a coastline), exclusive economic zones (up to 200 miles), and the high seas beyond. UNCLOS aims to promote peaceful cooperation, sustainable use of marine resources, and the protection of the ocean environment for all countries.