The Significance of International Legislation in Integrated Coastal Zone Management

Abstract

Abstract The pressure and deterioration created by unsustainable development activities are still threatening fragile ecosystems of the coastal zones at a global scale. This study aimed to conceptually handle integrated coastal zone management as a proposed solution to the global problem. Following an analysis pertaining to the progress in the conceptual framework, the study discusses the respective legislation developed within the multi-lateral international relations system. The discussion includes an analysis of the basic principles and mechanisms that such legislation is based on. Legislative instruments are assessed in terms of their levels - global or regional- as well as their direct or indirect involvement of coastal zone management.