Global Commons

Matters of International Concern: The Global Commons

Introduction to Global Commons

Large areas of the globe and beyond do not and legally cannot belong to any nation: most of the oceans and their resources, Antarctica, Earth’s atmosphere, outer space, and the Moon and other natural objects in space. These areas are known collectively as the global commons. The absence of political sovereignty for these areas means that international regulation is required to avoid conflict over them and to protect them from overuse, pollution, and other harm. International agreements for these areas are generally accepted as providing the legal framework for all those who conduct activities in them. See Aviation Law; Maritime Law; Freedom of the Seas.” (1)

Resources

Notes and References

• Information about Global Commons in the Encarta Online Encyclopedia

Guide to Global Commons