Define: Eez

An Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) is an area of the sea that extends up to 200 nautical miles from a country’s coastline. Within this zone, the country has special rights and jurisdiction over the exploration and exploitation of natural resources, both living and non-living.

Within an EEZ, countries have the right to explore and exploit natural resources such as fish, oil, gas, and minerals. They can also conduct scientific research, establish artificial islands, and construct and maintain structures for economic purposes, such as wind farms or oil rigs.

Other countries do not have the right to exploit resources within an EEZ without the consent of the coastal state. However, countries can enter into agreements or negotiate with the coastal state to access resources in exchange for certain benefits or compensation.

Under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), a country can potentially claim an extended continental shelf beyond 200 nautical miles if it can provide scientific evidence that the seabed and subsoil of the area is a natural prolongation of its land territory.

Yes, disputes over EEZ boundaries are not uncommon. When neighboring countries have overlapping claims, negotiations, mediation, or even legal proceedings may be necessary to resolve the dispute. International tribunals, such as the International Court of Justice or the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea, can also be involved in settling such disputes.

Military activities, including exercises and patrols, can be conducted within an EEZ. However, they must be carried out in a manner that does not interfere with the rights and duties of the coastal state, such as the exploration and exploitation of resources.

Yes, a coastal state has the authority to regulate and manage fishing activities within its EEZ. This includes setting fishing quotas, imposing licensing requirements, and establishing conservation measures to ensure sustainable fishing practices.

Yes, a coastal state has the right to establish marine protected areas within its EEZ to conserve and protect marine ecosystems and biodiversity. These areas may have restrictions on certain activities, such as fishing or oil exploration, to preserve the environment.

No, a country cannot exploit hydrocarbon resources within another country’s EEZ without the consent of the coastal state. Doing so would be a violation of international law and could lead to diplomatic tensions or legal disputes.

A country can potentially lose its rights over an EEZ if it fails to fulfill its obligations under international law, such as not effectively managing and conserving the resources within its zone. In such cases, other countries or international organisations may intervene to ensure the proper utilization and protection of the EEZ.