Maritime Geopolitics Intensify with Disputes Over Jurisdiction and Deep-Sea Resources
The global maritime domain is experiencing heightened geopolitical competition, driven by strategic interests in energy, minerals, and communication infrastructure. Disputes over maritime jurisdiction, such as those between Turkey and Greece regarding marine parks and Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs), highlight long-standing disagreements over territorial rights. These conflicts are not isolated, with similar tensions observed in the South China Sea and the Arctic. The deep seabed, rich in polymetallic nodules containing metals vital for batteries and advanced technologies, has become a new frontier for strategic competition. While proponents advocate for deep-sea mining to support the energy transition and reduce reliance on terrestrial mineral supplies, opponents raise concerns about the unknown impacts on deep-ocean ecosystems. Undersea cables, crucial for global digital communication and energy interconnectors, also contribute to geopolitical significance, as their routes often traverse disputed maritim...