The Tribunal

The International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea is an independent judicial body established by the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea to adjudicate disputes arising out of the interpretation and application of the Convention. The Tribunal is composed of 21 independent members, elected from among persons enjoying the highest reputation for fairness and integrity and of recognized competence in the field of the law of the sea.

  • History

    Opening of the Third United Nations Conference on the Law of the Sea, during which the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea is drafted.

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  • Members

    The Tribunal is composed of 21 independent members elected by secret ballot by the States Parties to the Convention.

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  • The President

    The President and Vice-President are elected by secret ballot by a majority of the members. They serve for a period of three years and may be re-elected.

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