“The International Seabed Authority represents both the promise and the paradox of collective ocean governance”. Assess its relevance for developing countries.

Topic: Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their structure, mandate.

Q4. “The International Seabed Authority represents both the promise and the paradox of collective ocean governance”. Assess its relevance for developing countries. (10 M)

Difficulty Level: Medium

Reference: TH

Why the question
Because India’s 2025 ISA licence in the Carlsberg Ridge revived debates on equity, sustainability, and geopolitics in seabed governance.

Key Demand of the question
To explain how the International Seabed Authority reflects both opportunities and contradictions in collective ocean governance, and to assess its significance for developing countries.

Structure of the Answer:

Introduction

Define ISA under UNCLOS and its role in managing seabed resources as global commons.

Body

• The promise and paradox of ISA: common heritage principle vs dominance of technologically advanced powers and weak environmental enforcement.
• Relevance for developing countries: access to critical minerals, strategic leverage, and capacity-building opportunities in global maritime governance.

Conclusion

Stress the need for reforms in ISA to make seabed exploration inclusive, sustainable, and truly equitable for the Global South.