Areas or resources not subject to national jurisdiction, available for shared use by all, are fundamental to the planet’s well-being. These spaces, which lie beyond the boundaries of individual countries, include the high seas, the atmosphere, Antarctica, and outer space. They represent shared inheritance, essential for ecological balance, climate regulation, and global communications. Their sustainable management necessitates international cooperation and agreements.
The maintenance of these shared resources is critical for a stable global environment and a functioning international system. They provide essential ecosystem services, facilitate global trade and scientific exploration, and hold potential for future resource development. Historically, their management has been a source of both cooperation and conflict, highlighting the necessity for clearly defined regulations and enforcement mechanisms to ensure equitable access and prevent overexploitation.
