Do we need Marine Protected Areas on the High Seas? Analysis of the legal implications of the establishment of Protected Areas on the High Seas

The duty of states to co-operate and not to cause damage to areas beyond national jurisdiction as formulated by UNCLOS, has not prevented the further deterioration of the oceans, the over-exploitaiton, depletion of marine species and the destruction of natural marine habitats. In the light of significant developments in global and regional Environmental Law, is important to look over the current regime for the protection of the oceans. In addition to better regulation and effective implementation, the establishment of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) as a tool for marine environmental protection and a vital component of integrated management of conservation is proposed. MPAs contribute in the protection and sustainable utilization of the marine environment. However, its settlement on the High Seas becomes a controversial issue to tackle, due to all the potentially conflicting uses and interests taking place in marine spaces