Author(s): NONJU, KALADA D. S. & GBOBO, PATRICIA IMADE | Vol. 22 (1) April, 2025
Abstract
The ongoing and accelerated changes in the earth’s climate, particularly rising sea levels and the increased frequency of extreme weather events are fundamentally affecting maritime boundaries and admiralty law. The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) provides the framework for maritime boundaries, but climate change is challenging its foundational principles. This paper explores how climate change affects maritime delimitation, sovereignty, and admiralty law, particularly in relation to Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs), territorial seas, and continental shelf rights through doctrinal research methodology. The article also appraises the adaptability of international legal systems to these new realities and proposes reforms to address the growing impact of climate change on maritime law.
Keywords: Climate Change, Boundaries, Maritime Law, Admiralty Law