Abstract
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This commentary considers a number of potential threats to security originating from the global
commons. While direct attacks on a state from vessels and aircraft passing through the global
commons constitute such threats, this paper focuses upon challenges posed by possible action
against maritime activity occurring outside the territorial sea and national airspace. In this
context, there are vulnerabilities surrounding a variety of activities in the global commons. These
include threats to international maritime trade and fisheries, possible attacks on offshore oil and
gas installations, and interference with pipelines and submarine cables. There are significant
limitations on the ability of a coastal state to respond within international law. This commentary
considers the nature of jurisdiction beyond the territorial sea, and investigates what protective
and responsive actions are available to states. It concludes by considering current international
developments which provide for cooperation in intelligence, surveillance and interdiction, and
greater use of port state control to circumvent these jurisdictional limitations