UNCLOS 82: Africa's contributions to the development of modern law of the sea 40 years later

Abstract

After being excluded from the development of early law of the sea due to colonialism, Africa has become quite active in the development of contemporary law of the sea ever since the various African States gained independence from colonial rule. Unfortunately, because many African states had not achieved independence during UNCLOS I and II, the outcomes of these Conferences did not include significant contributions from Africa. However, by the time of UNCLOS III, a significant number of African States had gained independence and had become active members of the international community. These African States were active in pushing for the convening of UNCLOS III to renegotiate the terms of modern law of the sea, and they made significant contributions during the Conference, particularly in the areas of the exclusive economic zone (EEZ), continental shelf (CS), and international seabed area (the Area), which were eventually incorporated into UNCLOS 82. This article will focus specifically on the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and Continental Shelf (CS) and will investigate whether African States have made significant contributions to the advancement of these two key functional economic maritime zones within national jurisdiction forty years after the adoption of UNCLOS.