The zones of the ocean that are not subject to the jurisdiction of any one nation are understood as areas free for navigation, overflight, fishing, and scientific research by all. These regions begin beyond the territorial sea of a coastal state, which typically extends 12 nautical miles from its baseline. They represent a complex legal and geopolitical space governed by international law, primarily the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
This shared maritime domain fosters global commerce and communication, facilitating the movement of goods and people across continents. Its governance promotes cooperation among nations in areas such as environmental protection, resource management, and the suppression of piracy. Historically, the concept evolved from the principle of freedom of the seas, initially championed to challenge exclusive maritime claims by powerful nations and ensure access for all.
