The conflict between petroleum production, navigation and fisheries in international law

Abstract

Growing offshore oil activity and new technology have resulted in increased interference with traditional uses of the sea, such as fishing and navigation. This article discusses where oil production is prohibited, the extent of safety zones and the removal of installations after use. These questions are examined on the basis of the 1958 Continental Shelf Convention, the 1982 Law of the Sea Convention and state practice. When assessing this multiple use conflict, the different legal regimes for the continental shelf, fishing and navigation must be harmonized. “Creeping jurisdiction”; in state practice and the handling of these questions in the International Maritime Organization are also examined.