International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea
The International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS) was created in October 1996 to solve any disputes that arise regarding the interpretation or application of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (effective November 16, 1982). The Convention created a detailed basis for the legalities of ocean usage, as well as the protection of marine life, and the exploration of the resources of the sea. One hundred and sixty-eight members make up today’s Tribunal, 167 of which are states, and one being an international organization (the European Community). Hamburg, Germany was named the seat of the Tribunal through a secret ballot vote by the member states, its rich history with maritime trade and international shipping being a key factor in the selection process.
Although the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea keeps close ties to the United Nations, it is considered to be an independent judicial body, and holds observer status in the General Assembly. The tribunal itself is made up of 21 judges that are chosen by a two-thirds majority vote by the member states that are listed as present and voting. Only 25 cases have been put before the council to this date, the most recent being in 2015 by The Republic of Panama against The Italian Republic regarding the alleged unlawful detention of an oil tanker from Panama. The cases are met with a comprehensive system tailored to solve disputes regarding the Convention, as the Tribunal has ultimate jurisdiction over such matters.
(https://www.itlos.org/en/general-information/)
The International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea will be focusing on three topics for this conference:
1. Territorial Disputes in the South China Sea
2. Sovereignty of the Northwest Passage
3. Combatting the Issue of International Piracy
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International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea - Background Guide:​