海上安全 批准《海洋法公约》的理由[20120425].pdf

a p r i l 2 0 1 2 p o l i c y B r i e fSecurity at SeaThe Case for Ratifying the Law of the Sea ConventionBy Will RogersThe United States should ratify the Law of the Sea Convention(LOSC).To date,the United States has protected its maritime interests successfully without ratifying this treaty.However,the rise of modern navies and unconventional security threats are making this approach ever more risky and will increasingly imperil U.S.national security interests.1 Failure to ratify LOSC will cede to other countries Americas ability to shape the interpretation and execution of the convention and protect the provisions that support the existing international order.It will also complicate Americas ability to address maritime challenges in the Arctic and South China Sea,inhibit Americas ability to drill for oil and gas offshore and allow other countries to lay claim to strategic energy and mineral reserves located in the high seas.The United States can ill afford to continue forgoing LOSC and the benefits that accrue to American interests.LOSC and Maritime SecurityCivilian and military leaders across the U.S.security community support LOSC ratification.2“Joining the Convention will adv