Africa and the Deep Seabed Regime: Politics and International Law of the Common Heritage of Mankind

This book seeks to fill a gap in the existing literature by examining the role of African States in the development and establishment of the regime of the deep seabed beyond national jurisdiction (hereinafter called 'the Area') and the concept of the common heritage of mankind. It explores African States' contributions to the evolution and development of the international law norms related to the regime and places these contributions in the context of vital historical, social, political and economic factors influencing African States' attitude to international law. In addition, the book would draw linkages between international law norms developed in respect of the regime and developmental/ geopolitical issues. For African States the regime was not just about the construction of legal rules, but also provided an avenue to attempt to resolve outstanding north/south issues related to economic and social development. In addition, the book will consider the possible hindrances to the effectual engagement of African States with this regime, including participation in seabed mining activities, and possible cooperative strategies that African States may embark on to overcome such hindrances.