Written by an incumbent Judge of the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea, this volume in the Elements of International Law series shows why a stable legal regime governing the uses and management of the oceans is such an important feature of international relations. Providing a fresh, objective, and non-argumentative approach to the discipline of international law, the Elements series is an accessible go-to source for practicing international lawyers, judges and arbitrators, government and military officers, scholars, teachers, and students.

In seven incisive chapters, Judge Kittichaisaree provides a clear overview of the organization and structure of the Tribunal and explores the various dispute mechanisms and advisory opinions that lie at the heart of its jurisprudence.

He further guides readers through ITLOS' intended role as the main dispute settlement mechanism for the international law of the sea. With first-hand experience and detailed analysis of the relevant instruments and prominent cases, he sheds light on the inner workings of the Tribunal, providing an accessible and invaluable resource for students and practitioners alike. The final chapter concludes by considering ITLOS' place in the settlement of future disputes in the law of the sea.