Three Perspectives on Marine Life in International Disputes

Abstract

This article charts three different approaches that international courts and tribunals have taken to marine life. Some have viewed marine life primarily as an economic resource, worthy of conservation only in order to ensure future exploitation. Others have seen marine life as an object of conservation in its own right. Yet others have tried to balance the two perspectives. The article also examines the sources that seem to have influenced the judges, finding that these range from the applicable law to external sources and contested legal principles.