Intelligent decisions for a new era at sea
The “freedom of the seas” is increasingly coming under attack – both literally and figuratively. Perhaps it’s time for a new “agreement” between politics and shipping – especially at a time when multilateralism isn’t exactly experiencing a hype at global scale.
It is not only about the Persian Gulf. The Strait of Hormuz, the Taiwan Strait and the Suez Canal are all regions where geopolitics are increasingly affecting shipping, and where safe and free navigation can no longer be taken for granted. Who knows where the next flashpoint will emerge?
Regardless of how events in the Persian Gulf unfold, shipping is facing an involuntary turning point. Concrete political protection is largely absent. “It would be nice if those in charge acted a bit more intelligently,” a shipping manager recently remarked.
The much‑cited principle of freedom of the seas is eroding at its core. In the early 17th century, Hugo Grotius formulated the doctrine of Mare Liberum-free seas free from political interference. What initially limited political power later proved convenient for rulers, sparing them the difficult task of reconciling competing national interests. Although the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea later created an international legal framework, the core maxim of Mare Liberum remained – and rightly so.
Shipping is adaptable, but it has limits, and those limits are now being reached. This raises the question of whether a new “agreement” between shipping and politics is needed. Too much is at stake for continued inaction.
Pointing to the complexity of flag law, classification societies and bilateral agreements may no longer be sufficient. Political leaders often emphasize the primacy of politics when it comes to maintaining order – yet that principle seems strikingly absent at sea.
Those in power are increasingly challenged to develop a coherent security‑policy framework for shipping. The common good embedded in Grotius’s thinking ultimately remains a political responsibility. This is not about micromanaging ship operations, but about addressing a fundamental imbalance: the near absence of political authority at sea. Simply “staying out” no longer appears to be an adequate response.
Opinions will differ, and criticism is inevitable. But better preparation is essential – especially at a time when multilateralism is under strain. Everyone depends on shipping in some way, even if only to supply their electorate. Policymakers therefore have a clear interest in safeguarding maritime trade and ensuring safer navigation through intelligent, practical decisions.
Read the full article here: https://hansa.news/intelligent-decisions-for-a-new-era-at-sea/
By courtesy of:
Michael Meyer
Editor-in-Chief
HANSA International Maritime Journal &
HANSA.news global
