Should Indonesia regulate foreign military activities in its EEZ?

Abstract

The issue of foreign military activities in the exclusive economic zone (EEZ) still divides the international community despite the almost universal acceptance of the 1982 Law of the Sea Convention. As a country with a vast EEZ, Indonesia is considering whether it needs specific legislation to regulate this issue. This article analyses the legal and political considerations of such a crucial intention and argues that under international law, it is difficult to justify regulating foreign military activities in the EEZ. Given strategic partnerships and other pressing issues, this article suggests that Indonesia should maintain the status quo of not regulating such activities.