The Minute: Ratify the Law of the Sea

RATIFY THE LAW OF THE SEA

The Earth from space is a soft collage of green, blue, brown and white. National borders are not visible, but the vast oceans and seas, which make up over two-thirds of the Earth's surface, are. 155 countries have ratified the Law of the Sea, a treaty that sets international guidelines for the oceans, the common heritage of mankind. It is past time for the U.S. to ratify the Law of the Sea and join this important community of nations.

Peace, Equity, and Security. No one nation controls the world's vast oceans. Only through a comprehensive set of rules can all nations profit fairly and sustainably from the ocean's resources and maintain their rights to navigate safely and freely.

We Shouldn't Be Left Out in the Arctic Cold. Joining the Law of the Sea will give us a seat at the table so we can voice our concerns with other nations. We can't sit on the sidelines anymore.

Senators Who Oppose the Convention are Out of Touch. The president, the military, environmental groups, and all major ocean industries support the treaty. The small minority who may vote against the Law of the Sea offer no alternative and are out of the mainstream.