MSR

Marine scientific research (MSR) is the collection and analysis of data and samples about the marine environment, regulated under UNCLOS Part XIII (Articles 238 to 265). All states and competent international organizations have the right to conduct MSR, subject to other states’ rights and duties (Article 238). In the territorial sea, MSR requires the express consent of the coastal state. In the EEZ and on the continental shelf, MSR is conducted with the consent of the coastal state, which shall in normal circumstances grant consent for research furthering scientific knowledge for peaceful purposes (Article 246). On the high seas and in the Area, MSR is open to all states under Articles 257 and 256.