Norway Pipelines Jurisdiction under LOSC. Implement Security Measures to Protect Norwegian Pipelines in the North Sea.

Abstract

The recent sabotage of the Nord Stream pipelines emphasizes the critical need to safeguard submarine pipelines. Given Norway's extensive network of submarine pipelines in the North Sea, the protection of these assets is vital. This study seeks to determine if Norway, as a pipeline-laying state, together with its entities Equinor and Gassco, can legally implement security measures on their pipelines within the maritime zones of other states. To answer this, the study examines the Law of the Sea Convention (LOSC) as the principal legal framework governing states' maritime rights, jurisdiction, and obligations. It also explores other international principles and treaties to provide a holistic understanding of Norway's legal rights and responsibilities related to security measures on its pipelines beyond its borders. The conclusion drawn is that Norway and its associated entities are permitted to enact security measures in the maritime zones of other states, provided such actions align with maintenance permissions as stipulated under LOSC.