When the UN Requires Maritime Investigation

The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) is an international treaty that establishes a comprehensive legal framework for all activities in the world’s oceans. Often referred to as the “Constitution of the Oceans,” it outlines:

The rights and responsibilities of nations regarding the use of maritime resources.

The protection of the marine environment.

The convention reinforces the principle that a vessel’s flag state has an ongoing responsibility for activities on board, including safety and accident investigations. Even if an accident occurs in international waters, the flag state plays a critical role in the investigation process. The port state takes a role  if it falls within it’s territorial waters.

Barry discusses UNCLOS, how it compels flag states to investigate and gives examples of recent report activity; not just by the UK’s own MAIB, but by other flag state bodies. Accident investigation is pivotal to ongoing maritime safety and engagement with these agencies is crucial in refining how we safely operate ships.