Maritime Boundaries and Maritime Security

Delimitation of maritime boundaries is a complex process and worldwide a great number of maritime boundaries remain to be delimited. In some instances situations of outstanding delimitation may rise to the level of dispute, either concerning sovereignty over territory or overlapping maritime entitlements or a combination of the two. Unsettled maritime boundaries and maritime boundary disputes affect maritime security themselves and through their impact on jurisdiction, cooperation and economic activity. This chapter addresses the concept of maritime zones and the maritime boundaries, the basis for maritime boundary disputes, and the impact on maritime security before considering these issues in respect of a case study: the dispute between Somalia and Kenya currently before the International Court of Justice.