Papua New Guinea Achieves Significant Milestone in Maritime Sovereignty

On 6th February 2025, the Government of Papua New Guinea (PNG) celebrated a significant milestone in its maritime sovereignty by formally submitting its geographical coordinates under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). This submission solidifies PNG's territorial boundaries and maritime zones, safeguarding its economic and strategic interests, especially as the nation marks its 50th year of independence.

During the launch of the Marine Scientific Research Guidelines, Hon. Justin Tkatchenko MP, Minister for Foreign Affairs, highlighted the achievement as the culmination of over two decades of efforts, starting with initial submissions in 2002 and the latest update in 2024. This updated data on PNG’s baselines and the outer limits of its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) was supported by the Pacific Community (SPC) through the Pacific Maritime Boundaries Project and its consortium of partners. The technical expertise provided by SPC has been essential in ensuring that PNG’s maritime boundaries are clearly defined and internationally recognized.

The Government’s work on this project has also been bolstered by strong partnerships with international donors, including the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the United Kingdom, and the European Union. These collaborations have played a key role in helping PNG navigate the technical and legal challenges associated with the process.

The submission is especially timely, as climate change poses a growing threat to PNG’s maritime boundaries. Rising sea levels could potentially alter coastlines and shift maritime borders. Minister Tkatchenko emphasized that securing PNG’s maritime borders is vital to protect its sovereignty in the face of these environmental challenges. This assertion of maritime boundaries also has significant implications for fisheries enforcement, environmental conservation, and regional security, particularly in light of the increasing geopolitical interest in the Pacific region.

Aligned with the 2015 Pacific Islands Forum Leaders’ Declaration, PNG upholds the principle that maritime base points should remain permanent, regardless of climate-induced sea-level rise. This principle ensures that PNG’s sovereignty is preserved, and its maritime zones remain secure despite the impacts of climate change.

Minister Tkatchenko concluded by stating, “As the region faces growing security concerns, including illegal fishing, transnational crime, and geopolitical pressures, the clear delineation of PNG's maritime borders is critical. This achievement will enhance national security, support sustainable fisheries management, and strengthen PNG’s position in regional and international affairs.”

This milestone reinforces PNG's commitment to preserving its maritime rights and sovereignty, marking a major step forward in its long-term national and regional security strategy.