Internal waters

Coastal States have full sovereignty over internal waters, similar to their land territory. These waters include rivers, ports, estuaries and bays, with their juridical status depending on precise baseline measurements. Practical issues often challenge the abstract legal rules, such as drawing straight baselines across deeply indented coasts or fringing islands. While the legal assumption generally excludes foreign navigation rights, exceptions like access rights for landlocked States or vessels in distress are recognized. The chapter also covers procedures for port entry, the discretionary process of accepting or rejecting foreign vessels and criminal jurisdiction over ships in internal waters. It emphasizes how Coastal States’ rights intersect with international standards, especially in emergencies, humanitarian efforts or security threats, requiring a careful balance between sovereign authority, international obligations and the protection of life at sea.