4.3.15 (HL)—UNCLOS

A coastal state controls resources in its EEZ up to 200 nautical miles (about 370 km); beyond it, high-seas governance is collective and harder to enforce.

An EEZ access agreement can raise state revenue but allow large fleets to outcompete local fishers or export food and livelihoods. Almost 60% of the ocean lies on the high seas, where enforcement is harder; the UN High Seas Treaty adds a framework for protecting biodiversity beyond national jurisdiction. Evaluate authority, stock limits and distribution of gains together.

A foreign fleet pays for EEZ access; the state gains fees, while local communities may lose catch if quotas and monitoring are weak.

Who benefits, what stock limit applies, who monitors and whether local livelihoods are protected.

Legal authority does not guarantee equitable access or sustainable catch.