Abstract for Scopus Indexing: This article scrutinizes the “integrative approach” taken by International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS) in the Climate Change Advisory Opinion it issued in May 2024. Asked to spell out the obligations of State parties to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) with respect to climate change, ITLOS is given the opportunity to offer its view of the relationship between the law of the sea and the wider international legal framework relevant to climate change. By adopting an “integrative approach” to interpreting relevant UNCLOS provisions, ITLOS gives—in a compelling and pithy manner—substance to a comprehensive understanding of the law. This article sets out to examine ITLOS’s integrative approach, with respect both to its underpinnings and its implementation.

Abstract for Scopus Indexing: COVID-19 pandemic public health restrictions degraded the labour and human rights of seafarers globally. Seafarers were denied medical care, repatriation, and leave. More than 400,000 seafarers were stranded at sea beyond the end of their contracts. Many studies evaluated the strengths and limitations of the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC, 2006) and criticized the violation of seafarers’ rights during the pandemic worldwide. However, few academic studies have interpreted the new MLC, 2006 amendments unveiled in 2022. To fill this research gap, this article examines to what extent the 2022 amendments of MLC, 2006 address maritime labour governance deficits revealed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Through an examination of the efforts made by representatives of seafarers, shipowners and governments at the Fourth Meeting of the Special Tripartite Committee of the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (2021–2022), we find that the 2022 amendments can enhance seafarers’ health and safety rights to personal protective equipment, free potable water, urgent medical care, prompt repatriation, and social connectivity. However, significant gaps remain, such as the lack of recognition of seafarers as key workers, and inadequate support for port-based welfare services. Robust collaboration and communication channels between flag, port, and labour-supplying States are still missing.

Abstract for Scopus Indexing: Marine geoengineering (MGE) offers potential pathways to mitigate anthropogenic greenhouse gases through techniques such as carbon dioxide removal and solar radiation management. However, it also presents significant environmental risks and governance challenges. This article reviews the existing international governance framework on MGE, with specific reference to key instruments such as the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Seas, the London Convention and London Protocol, the Convention on Biological Diversity, and the climate change regime. The article concludes by examining the evolving landscape of MGE governance in West Africa, focusing on efforts to develop a robust governance framework for these emerging technologies.

Abstract for Scopus Indexing: The maritime domain provides enormous opportunities for socio-economic development of States and indeed it is an anchor of globalization. One of the critical threats that undermine sea lines of communication security is piracy. This article examines the enduring threat of piracy in the Gulf of Guinea, despite a recent decline in attacks. It examines the evolution of Gulf of Guinea piracy, its impact on global maritime security, and the effectiveness of counter-piracy measures. The authors analyzed the historical trajectory of piracy incidents through to the peak in 2020. Key dynamics during this period, including evolving tactics, are examined. Global, regional and national responses were also assessed. Results show that while attacks decreased after 2020, the threat persists. The findings underscore the need for sustained and enhanced counter-piracy efforts in the Gulf of Guinea, including improved maritime domain awareness and at-sea interdiction capabilities. The resurgence of piracy elsewhere, as seen in Somalia, emphasizes the potential for rapid escalation, highlighting the importance of proactive and collaborative wholistic responses.

Abstract for Scopus Indexing: Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS) represent a significant advance in maritime technology and promise transformative change in the industry. As the adoption of MASS accelerates, the legal landscape governing their operation becomes increasingly important. This article provides a comprehensive examination of recent developments and updates in MASS regulation. The article begins with an overview of the development of MASS and addresses the legal challenges and considerations related to MASS regulation, including safety, cybersecurity, liability, and compliance with international conventions. Recent regulatory updates including the development of the MASS Code are analyzed for their legal implications. It, further, examines the evolving landscape of emerging trends and future directions in MASS regulation, emphasizing the need for international cooperation, innovative regulatory approaches, and ethical considerations.

Abstract for Scopus Indexing: State coalitions and non-governmental organizations (NGO s) play crucial roles in international negotiations on ocean governance. They foster cooperation, provide expertise, advocate for interests, and bring diverse perspectives to encourage equitable and sustainable outcomes. Small Island Developing States (SIDS) is an internationally recognized designation for States with structural characteristics unique enough to be considered “special circumstances.” SIDS, which are particularly reliant on healthy marine ecosystems, have an inseparable fate from the ocean and see themselves as one with this global commons. SIDS have been leaders in negotiating and ratifying the pending international agreement on the biodiversity beyond national jurisdiction (BBNJ Agreement). Within SIDS, the emerging label of Large Ocean State or Big Ocean State (BOS) offers a new lens to reassess and build relationships among ocean actors for the collective good. SIDS, many of which also identify as BOS, have been exemplars in several major international environmental regimes. We argue that the BBNJ Agreement provides a platform for these States to consolidate their ocean governance leadership and increase their influence. We conducted structured interviews with 19 BBNJ Agreement negotiators and observers to capture their insights on the Agreement’s negotiations. From these, we distil four recommendations for SIDS and their partners to improve ocean governance: 1) Advance the BOS label within SIDS to unite over shared challenges and leverage common assets; 2) Protect the BBNJ Agreement’s complete “package” as critical to SIDS’ priorities; 3) Strengthen and clarify SIDS’ relationships with environmental NGO s; and 4) Emphasize the shared stewardship of all nations for ocean governance. The BBNJ Agreement can empower all its parties to be ocean governance leaders to achieve its goals. If adequately supported, SIDS, particularly BOS, can be greater positive drivers in the negotiation and implementation of the BBNJ Agreement.

Abstract for Scopus Indexing: Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), often referred to as “forever chemicals,” pose profound environmental and health challenges due to their extreme persistence and longevity. The objective of this article is to explore the regulation of the ocean-atmospheric interface, acknowledging the ocean’s dual role as both a sink and a source of PFAS and arguing that this interface, as a critical yet understudied area in pollution management, requires greater attention. Although PFAS have been included in the material scope of several international and regional regulatory instruments, the compartmentalized nature of existing treaties and policy frameworks may not adequately address the complex interactions between the atmosphere and the ocean. After succinctly outlining the challenges arising from PFAS and providing a brief introduction to existing treaties and policy frameworks addressing their management, this piece argues that a more forward-thinking, holistic approach to decision-making is needed. It aims to sensitize the reader to adopt a more integrated perspective on seemingly disconnected environmental substances and develops ideas on how to address the problem of shifting between different environment compartments and branches of public international law. This article concludes by offering recommendations for future policy-making across the ocean-atmospheric interface, such as exploring and incorporating the principle of intergenerational equity more centrally into regulatory discussions.