Law of the Sea Treaty: It's a No-Brainer

Earlier this month, Russia planted its flag on the seabed beneath the North Pole, calling international attention to its longstanding yet dubious claim to the strategically important and oil, gas and mineral-rich Lomonosov Ridge. Other nations, including the U.S., could enjoy rights in the Arctic, but only States Parties to the Law of the Sea Treaty make such claims - or challenge the claims of others.

Upon its return from the August recess, the Senate should ratify the treaty immediately.

The Senate passage of this treaty is a vital for peace, equity and security. After all, 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.

The U.S. shouldn't be left out in the Arctic cold. Under the Law of the Sea, member countries can stake claims to their respective extended continental shelves. As a non-member, the U.S. is missing out on a huge economic opportunity, not to mention substantial security and environmental benefits.

It will be interesting to see what transpires when the Senate resumes its work post-Labor Day. The chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Joe Biden, has publicly supported ratifying the treaty; however he has yet to move forward in regards to holding hearings on Law of the Sea. Let’s hope he sets a date, soon, and the Senate moves to ratify LOS.

After all, it’s a no-brainer. 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.

The President, the military, environmental groups, all major ocean industries and key Senators on both sides of the aisle support the treaty. The small minority who may vote against the Law of the Sea offer no alternative and are out of the mainstream.