Authority over natural resources: no end of geography

Tams, C. J. (2021) Authority over natural resources: no end of geography. In: Fremuth, M. L., Griebel, J. and Heinsch, R. (eds.) Natural Resources and International Law - Developments and Challenges: A Liber Amicorum in Honour of Stephan Hobe. Nomos ; Hart: Baden-Baden, Germany ; Oxford, England, pp. 307-320. ISBN 9781509952830 (doi: 10.5040/9781509952847.0018)

Abstract

This chapter offers concluding reflections on the legal regimes governing natural resources, as discussed in this Volume. Stepping back from the details offered in the preceding chapters and seeking to spell out assumptions informing them, it makes three points. First, it notes the diversity and fragmentation of the various regimes, which typically address a particular resource or resource-related activity, or lay down rules for a particular area. Second, it emphasises the continuing relevance of geographical factors for the allocation of authority over resources, and in this respect draws a distinction between (i) resources within a State’s sphere of influence, (ii) resources located outside spheres of State influence, and (iii) resources ‘straddling’ spheres of influence. Finally, third, it notes the contingency of these three categories, and highlights how in the course of the 20th century, international law has evolved to recognise expanded spheres of State influence, often driven by a quest for control over resources.

• Item Type: Book Sections
• Status: Published
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Tams, Professor Christian
• Authors: Tams, C. J.
• College/School: College of Social Sciences > School of Law
• Publisher: Nomos ; Hart
• ISBN: 9781509952830
• Published Online: 28 March 2022