Authors

Julie Franki

Document Type

Essay

Publication Title

Emory Int'l L. Rev. Recent Dev.

Publication Date

Winter 1-1-2017

Abstract

The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) has left a battle of interpretation that the United States and China have been clashing over for decades. Both countries cite support from UNCLOS, which highlights the need for clarification of which position should be accepted in international law. China supports its contention that its construction of the islands does not violate international law'and therefore does not constitute an impediment to freedom of navigation'with its 'nine-dash line.' This Essay ultimately argues that the United States' interpretation and application of UNCLOS is more meritorious than that of China; however, more explicit provisions in UNCLOS concerning the authorization of military operations in a foreign country's Exclusive Economic Zone and around artificial islands would provide a more robust legal framework to resolve this international dispute.

Volume

31

First Page

1021

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