Political Boundaries and Law of the Sea

Introduction

• Review of functions of political boundaries and the Law of the Sea.
• Boundaries are invisible barriers or lines that separate states.
• Boundaries define state sovereignty and can be contested.
• Boundaries can be based on cultural, physical, or political/economic differences.

Functions of Boundaries

• Show property limits for individuals.
• Assist in city/town zoning for organizations.
• Enable states to exert control over geographical areas.

Types of Boundary Disputes

1. Definitional Boundary Disputes

   • Disputes over interpretation of documents defining boundaries.
   • Often resolved in court.

2. Locational Boundary Disputes

   • Arise when physical geography changes, affecting boundary location.
   • Example: Mississippi River shifts affecting Mississippi and Louisiana boundary.

3. Operational Boundary Disputes

   • Disagreements on managing boundary-related issues.
   • Example: US-Mexico border control disagreements.

4. Allocational Boundary Disputes

   • Disputes over natural resource usage on boundaries.
   • Example: Oil extraction rights on boundary lines.

United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS)

• Adopted in 1983 to manage sea-related boundary disputes.
• Zones Defined by Law of the Sea:
  1. Territorial Waters: 0-12 nautical miles from shore. States regulate passage and apply mainland laws.
  2. Contiguous Zone: 12-24 nautical miles from shore. Laws on pollution, taxation, customs, and immigration enforced.
  3. Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ): 24-200 nautical miles. States have sole rights to natural resources.
• Beyond 200 nautical miles are international waters.
• Disputes resolved by International Court of Justice.

South China Sea Dispute

• Rich in resources: oil, natural gas, fisheries.
• Vital trade route.
• Various countries claim parts of the sea.
• China claims historical rights using the nine-dash line from an old map.
• Island-building by China to extend control.
• Spratly Islands claimed by multiple countries.
• U.S. involvement due to enforcing international law.
• Rising tensions due to U.S. military presence.
• Impacts both regional politics and global economy.

Conclusion

• Continued tensions in South China Sea expected.
• Global focus on the outcome of boundary disputes.
• Importance of international law enforcement and economic implications.

Next Steps

• Practice questions and review answers.
• Consider further study resources like review packets.