Regulating State

In the context of vessel-source pollution, the coastal state acts as a regulating authority over its EEZ under UNCLOS Article 211. Article 211(5) lets the coastal state adopt laws for its EEZ to prevent, reduce, and control pollution from vessels, but only those conforming to and giving effect to generally accepted international rules and standards established through the competent international organization, the IMO. For special areas where stricter measures are justified, Article 211(6) sets a procedure requiring IMO endorsement. Enforcement against foreign ships in the EEZ is constrained by Articles 220 and 228, which favor flag-state proceedings except for serious, well-evidenced discharge violations.