The management, exploitation and operation of a research vessel by a State are activities subject to regulation under its domestic legal order. However, the external activities undertaken by such a vessel, particularly in waters under the jurisdiction of another State, are subject to certain “moorings”.

These moorings or obstacles are addressed within the framework of the Law of the Sea. This seminar proposes a reflection on the legal framework applicable to all vessels under the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and, in particular, on the differentiated regime to which research vessels are subject.

Despite the existence of these moorings, the navigation and passage of marine scientific research vessels in waters under the jurisdiction of another coastal State require close inter-State cooperation and coordination, which are essential for carrying out scientific studies and research programmes.