semiexclaves

A semiexclave is a type of territorial enclave where the territory can be accessed from the mainland of the enclaving country without passing through the territory of another country, but only by crossing water. This distinguishes it from a full exclave, which requires passing through foreign territory to be reached from the home country.

The concept of a semiexclave is most commonly associated with maritime boundaries. For instance, if a country possesses an island that is geographically close to another country but is not contiguous with its mainland, and the waters surrounding that island are considered internal waters of the enclaving country, then that island could be considered a semiexclave. Access to this island would be possible by sea directly from the enclaving country's mainland territory.

A key characteristic is the absence of a land border with the surrounding territory of another sovereign state. While a semiexclave is technically detached from the mainland of its governing country, its direct access via internal waters means it does not present the same logistical or political complexities as a full exclave. The primary requirement for access is naval or maritime capability, rather than traversing foreign land.

Examples are rare and sometimes debated due to the precise definition of internal waters and territorial seas. However, the theoretical understanding of a semiexclave highlights the nuances in geopolitical geography and the ways in which states can administer territories that are not physically connected to their main landmass. The distinction from a full exclave is crucial, as it implies a different level of accessibility and potential for integration with the parent state.