maritimelainsäädäntöä

Maritime law, also known as admiralty law, is the body of law that governs maritime activities and commerce. It encompasses private international law, which deals with disputes between private parties in maritime matters, and public international law, which governs relationships between states on the seas. Key areas within maritime law include navigation, shipping, carriage of goods by sea, marine insurance, salvage, collision, and pollution.

The purpose of maritime law is to provide a framework for the safe and efficient operation of shipping and maritime trade, as well as to resolve disputes that arise in this international context. It aims to standardize rules and practices to facilitate global commerce and ensure predictability. Many of the principles of modern maritime law have historical roots in ancient maritime customs and codes, such as the Rhodian Sea Law and the Consolato del Mare.

International conventions play a crucial role in harmonizing maritime law globally. Organizations like the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the International Labour Organization (ILO) develop and promote treaties that cover a wide range of issues, from ship safety and security to environmental protection and seafarer welfare. National legislation often transposes these international obligations into domestic law. Maritime courts or specialized admiralty courts typically handle cases falling under this jurisdiction.