Ocean Disorder Requires British Leadership, Argues Elisabeth Braw

By the Editorial Team · Monday, July 27, 2026

Multiple countries, including China, Russia, and the United States, have recently taken actions that undermine established international maritime rules, increasing tensions and risks in key ocean regions. The United Kingdom is being urged to lead a global effort to restore maritime order and uphold laws to protect coastal economies and marine environments.

The global maritime environment is facing increasing challenges, with a growing number of nations and non-state actors disregarding established rules governing the oceans. Various recent incidents and actions have raised concerns about the erosion of international maritime order, prompting calls for stronger leadership to restore oversight and stability.

In the South China Sea, China has continued its contentious practice of constructing artificial islands in disputed areas and exerting pressure on vessels from other countries operating in the region. This behavior has heightened tensions among neighboring states and drawn international criticism for undermining maritime norms.

Meanwhile, Russia has been utilizing a so-called "shadow fleet" to transport sanctioned oil, raising safety and security risks for coastal states including the United Kingdom. Alongside this, Russian naval vessels have provided escort to some of these ships. In a further display of naval assertiveness, the Russian navy conducted a live-fire exercise off the coast of Plymouth last week. While the exercise did not violate international law, it was viewed as an unwelcome demonstration of military presence in British waters.

The United States has also contributed to maritime disorder through its recent policy shift on deep-sea mining. In the spring of 2026, the U.S. administration authorized companies to engage in seabed mineral extraction in international waters, a move that challenges the framework set by the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). Although the United States has not ratified UNCLOS, it has historically adhered to many of its principles, making this departure notable.

These developments reveal the fragility of the global maritime governance system, with major powers acting in ways that risk undermining decades of progress. Observers warn that without sustained order, both the economies of coastal nations and the health of marine ecosystems could be jeopardized.

One proposed solution is for the United Kingdom to assume a leadership role in reestablishing maritime order. Once the foremost naval power and still a central actor in global shipping and maritime diplomacy, Britain possesses unique credentials and influence. Advocates suggest that London’s historical and institutional standing could enable it to convene an international coalition dedicated to upholding maritime laws and norms.

Proponents argue that most countries favor a rules-based maritime system and would support renewed efforts to safeguard the governance of the oceans. With Britain’s renewed commitment, they contend, it would be possible to reinforce cooperation, deter unlawful activities, and ensure the sustainable use of maritime resources worldwide.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.