Part I Assessing the UN Institutional Structure for Global Ocean Governance: The UN’s Role in Global Ocean Governance, 2 Role of the International Seabed Authority in Global Ocean Governance

Abstract

This chapter examines the role of the International Seabed Authority (ISA) in global ocean governance. In particular, it highlights the assumption of ISA's explicit mandate for environmental protection as an integral aspect of its overall governance of the deep sea-bed ‘Area’ beyond national jurisdiction, especially following the 1994 Implementation Agreement to the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). This assumption is particularly significant given the fact that the ISA work programme has now progressed to the point where as of 31 January 2017, a total of twenty-six contracts for exploration had entered into force (sixteen for polymetallic nodules, six for polymetallic sulphides and four for cobalt-rich ferromanganese crusts). The chapter also discusses various activities undertaken in the Area, such as prospecting, exploration and exploitation of resources; marine scientific research; and benefit-sharing for exploitation on the outer continental shelf. Finally, it considers ISA's emphasis on the importance of international cooperation in implementing its mandates.