Question: Under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), what zone grants a coastal state exclusive rights to explore and exploit marine resources?

Sun, 03 May 2026 10:19:43 +0000

Understanding the Exclusive Economic Zone Under UNCLOS: Rights and Responsibilities of Coastal States Under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) is the key maritime zone granting coastal states specific rights to explore, exploit, conserve, and manage marine resources. Established in 1982 and entering into force in 1994, UNCLOS defines the legal framework governing ocean use globally, and the EEZ plays a central role in balancing national sovereignty with shared maritime stewardship. ### What Is the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ)? The Exclusive Economic Zone extends up to 200 nautical miles from a coastal state’s baseline, usually measured along the low-water line. Within this zone, the coastal state holds exclusive sovereign rights over natural resources—both living and non-living—found in the water column and seabed. This includes: