semiexclave

A semiexclave is a type of territorial dispute in international law where a territory is completely surrounded by the territory of one country, but that country has no land access to the sea. This means that to reach the sea from the semiexclave, one must pass through the territory of at least one other country. The term is often used to describe situations where a territory is effectively isolated due to its geographical location.

A notable historical example often cited in discussions of semiexclaves is Nagorno-Karabakh, which was historically surrounded by Azerbaijan but had no direct access to the sea. Similarly, some island territories might be considered semiexclaves if they are entirely enclosed by a single country's landmass, and that country itself does not border the sea. The legal implications of a semiexclave can be complex, particularly regarding issues of transit rights and access to international waters. The definition and application of the term can vary depending on the specific geopolitical context and the interpretation of international legal principles.