La ampliación de la plataforma continental más allá de las 200 millas marinas en el marco de la convención de naciones unidas sobre el derecho del mar – especial referencia a España

Abstract

The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea envisages the possibility for coastal States to extend their continental shelf up to the outer edge of the continental margin. This creates an additional marine space where States can explore and exploit the natural resources. The extension is subject to the delineation of its outer limit by means of a complex mechanism provided for in the Convention, in which the Commission on the Limits issues recommendations that confirm the proposed limits. The geo-strategic position of Spain provides an excellent example of state practice, since it has faced the procedure of extension three times, which enables it to shape a new map to exercise its sovereignty over. This research shall enable us to assess the interpretation that the Commission on the Limits makes of the extension mechanism, to anticipate the outcome of future recommendations and to propose solutions.