Territorial sovereignty over marine resources extended, sparking potential conflicts.
The law of the sea has changed a lot in the last century. Countries now have more control over marine areas near their coasts, with extended rights to resources like fish and minerals. This shift is due to the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea. Coastal nations can claim larger areas, but conflicts may arise over boundaries. The deep sea-bed and its resources are considered the common heritage of mankind. Disputes over maritime zones are settled through international agreements.