kuststaten

Kuststaten is a term used in some legal and maritime contexts, particularly in Sweden, to refer to coastal states. A coastal state is any sovereign state that has a coastline, meaning it borders a sea or ocean. This designation is significant for international law, as coastal states have certain rights and responsibilities concerning their territorial waters, contiguous zones, and exclusive economic zones. These rights can include sovereignty over resources within these maritime areas, the right to regulate navigation, and the obligation to protect the marine environment. The concept of a kuststat is fundamental to understanding maritime boundaries and the legal framework governing activities at sea. It distinguishes states based on their geographical relationship to the sea and the associated legal implications.