Merioikeusyleissopimus

Merioikeusyleissopimus is a Finnish term that literally means a general or umbrella treaty in the field of maritime law. In common usage it does not refer to a single specific agreement by that exact name, but rather to the idea of a comprehensive international convention or framework governing maritime law. In practice, the term may be used to describe the body of multilateral instruments that together regulate maritime matters, with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) forming the central reference point.

A general maritime law convention would cover a wide range of issues related to the sea. These include jurisdiction over maritime areas, freedom of navigation, the rights and duties of coastal states and flag states, maritime safety, search and rescue, liability for damages arising from maritime activities, ship registration, fisheries, and environmental protection. The aim is to provide a coherent legal regime that facilitates safe, secure, and sustainable use of oceans.

Relation to existing instruments is essential. The core framework for modern maritime law is UNCLOS, adopted in 1982 and in force since 1994. Complementary instruments address specific aspects of the field, such as safety and security (SOLAS), pollution prevention (MARPOL), and seafarer employment (ILO conventions), as well as sector-specific rules under the International Maritime Organization. Earlier Geneva Conventions on the Law of the Sea also inform contemporary practice.

Usage of the term varies in Finnish legal literature. It is commonly used descriptively to refer to the general concept of a comprehensive maritime-law agreement rather than to a single, named treaty.

See also: UNCLOS; International Maritime Organization; MARPOL; SOLAS; ILO; Geneva Conventions on the Law of the Sea.