International Laws and Agreements
Several international laws and agreements have been established to protect global commons, including:
- The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS): Governs the use of the oceans and aims to protect the marine environment.
- The Antarctic Treaty (1959): Establishes Antarctica as a scientific preserve and bans military activity on the continent.
- The Outer Space Treaty (1967): Bans the placement of nuclear weapons in space and limits the use of celestial bodies to peaceful purposes.
- The Montreal Protocol (1987): A successful environmental treaty that phases out the production of numerous substances responsible for ozone depletion.
The Protection of Global Commons| Class 12 Political Science Notes
The concept of ‘global commons’ refers to natural resources and regions that lie outside the political reach of any one nation-state and are considered common areas shared by all. These include the Earth’s atmosphere, outer space, Antarctica, and the high seas. The protection of these areas is crucial due to their universal importance and vulnerability to exploitation and environmental degradation. This article explores the various dimensions of global commons, the challenges in their protection, and the role of international law and organizations in safeguarding these vital resources.
Table of Content
- Understanding Global Commons
- Challenges in Protecting Global Commons
- International Laws and Agreements
- Role of International Organizations
- Case Studies
- Future Perspectives and Challenges