Analysts say UNCLOS ratification could strengthen Cambodia’s maritime sovereignty

PHNOM PENH, Jan 20, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia’s move to ratify the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) could provide a stronger legal framework for protecting its maritime sovereignty and managing overlapping sea claims, analysts said Tuesday.

The Senate has begun reviewing a draft law to ratify the convention, which officials say would enhance maritime governance and raise Cambodia’s international standing.

The draft has already been submitted for examination by the Legislative and Justice Committee, working alongside committees on foreign affairs, defense and border issues.

Geopolitical analyst Kin Phea said the step was significant given Cambodia’s unresolved maritime boundaries with Vietnam and Thailand.

“Because Cambodia has overlapping sea areas with Vietnam and Thailand, ratifying UNCLOS would allow Cambodia to resolve maritime boundary issues through international law,” he told KPT English.

UNCLOS sets global rules on maritime boundaries, navigation rights and the use of the seas, covering commerce, environmental protection and resource management. It also provides mechanisms for dispute resolution and defines the rights and obligations of states.

Phea cautioned that implementation would be difficult, noting Cambodia’s limited technical expertise and funding for maritime boundary delimitation and marine environmental management.

“Maritime boundary delimitation demands specialised knowledge and modern technology,” he said, adding that Cambodia still faces constraints in expertise and resources.

Despite these challenges, he said ratification would bring long term benefits, including international recognition of Cambodia’s borders, greater investor confidence and sustainable exploitation of marine resources.

Political analyst Yang Peou urged caution, citing the geopolitical sensitivities of maritime disputes. He argued smaller states must carefully weigh the risks and benefits of joining international conventions.

“Not every treaty necessarily brings advantages. Some can complicate negotiations rather than help,” he said.

Cambodia signed UNCLOS in 1983 but has yet to ratify it. Officials say approval would allow the country to better manage its maritime territory, resolve disputes through international mechanisms and strengthen its legal standing in regional and global maritime affairs.