The term "three mile limit" refers to a legal concept in international maritime law that designates the territorial jurisdiction of a coastal state. It refers to the distance from the coastline within which a nation has the authority to enforce its laws, exercise control over its resources, and carry out various activities related to its national interests.
The principle behind the three mile limit is grounded in the notion of sovereignty, asserting a coastal state's exclusive governance over nearby waters. Historically, this concept was influential in defining a nation's territorial waters and has since been incorporated into numerous international agreements and conventions.
The distance of three miles has been the traditional standard for determining the limit, although it can vary depending on national legislation and specific circumstances. It is important to note that the three mile limit is measured from the baseline, which is usually identified as the low-water line along the coast.
Within the three mile limit, coastal states have the authority to enforce various laws, including those related to immigration, customs, and the environment. They can also regulate fishing activities, control navigation, and exploit natural resources. However, beyond the three mile limit, the high seas commence, where different rules and regulations apply, governed by international conventions like the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
In conclusion, the three mile limit is a legal concept that establishes a coastal state's jurisdiction and control over the waters extending three nautical miles from its coastline, ensuring the enforcement of national laws and safeguarding its interests in the maritime domain.
