The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (LOSC) represents one of the most successful examples of multilateral treaty making in the modern era. The convention has 168 States parties, and most non-signatory States recognise nearly all of its key provisions as binding under customary international law, including the United States. Nevertheless, there remain significant differences in interpretation and implementation of the LOSC among States as well as calls, on occasion, for its amendment.

This book analyses the impact, influence and ongoing role of the LOSC in South East Asia, one of the most dynamic maritime regions in the world. Maritime security is a critical issue within the region, and it is separately assessed in light of the LOSC and contemporary challenges such as environmental security and climate change. Likewise, navigational rights and freedoms are a major issue and they are evaluated through the LOSC and regional state practice, especially in the South China Sea. Special attention is given to the role of navies and non-state actors. Furthermore, the book looks at regional resource disputes which have a long history. These disputes have the potential to increase into the future as economic interests and concerns over food security intensify. Effective LNG and fisheries resource management is therefore a critical issue for the region and unless resolved could become the focal point for significant maritime disputes. These dynamics within the region all require extensive exploration in order to gauge the effectiveness of LOSC dispute resolution mechanisms.

The Law of the Sea in South East Asia fills a gap in the existing literature by bringing together a holistic picture of contemporary maritime issues affecting the region in a single volume. It will appeal to academic libraries, government officials, think-tanks and scholars from law, strategic studies and international relations disciplines.

About the Author

Donald R. Rothwell is Professor of International Law at the ANU College of Law, Australia

David Letts is Director of the Military Law Program, and Director of the Centre for Military and Security Law at the ANU College of Law, Australia

Reviews

" I would recommend this accessible volume to both those new to the field in search of the current regional state of the art, and those experienced researchers looking to contextualize their work in the wider Regional Maritime Context. The sheer array of maritime developments, disputes and uncertainties discussed in this regional hotbed for the law of the Sea will surely leave every reader with new knowledge and reflections to ponder upon. The extensive sources cited provide eager readers with a springboard to delve deeper into a rich area that will continue to evolve and this volume acts as an essential guide in understanding the Law of the Sea.' --

MRIGANK GURUDATT, RASHTRIYA RAKSHA UNIVERSITY

Book Information
ISBN 9780367075026
Author Donald R Rothwell
Format Hardback
Page Count 270
Imprint Routledge
Publisher Taylor & Francis Ltd
Weight(grams) 453g