Developing and Reframing the LOSC in Changing Circumstances

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Abstract This article examines the State practice of thirty-one small island developing States (SIDS) in implementing the consent regime for marine scientific research (MSR) under the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (LOSC) from 2005 to 2020. By analysing domestic legislation and questionnaire responses from government officials, research vessel operators, and research institutes, the study identifies trends in the interpretation of rights and obligations within the MSR consent regime and challenges to its implementation. The findings indicate that the framework remains operational, with SIDS adapting the framework to developments in other areas of international law. The article concludes by offering recommendations to enhance the framework’s implementation.