Cultural norms underpin oceans law and policy, shaping rules for everything from maritime shipping to deep seabed mining. The doctrine of freedom of the seas, for instance, is an expression of Western European notions of liberty as much as it reflects geopolitical interests. Similarly, Latin American concepts of dependency theory and anti-colonialism support expansive coastal state rights, while envisioning ocean resources as the 'common heritage' of mankind reflects African communitarianism. The East Asian belief in Confucian social hierarchy reflects deference to authority, stability, and structure.

Drawing on evidence from the origins of civilization to the present, this volume examines how cultural norms have impacted international maritime law. It brings together an expert cast of contributors - representing both the Global South and North - to explore how different regions culturally express and understand the law of the sea. Its chapters offer a breadth of perspectives on major elements of the law of the sea, including marine environmental protection, marine resource conservation, sustainable development, maritime security, and freedom of navigation.