Australia as a Middle Power: Challenging the narrative of developed/developing states in international negotiations surrounding marine genetic resources
Publication Type
Journal Article
Publication Date
2-2021
Abstract
To date, marine genetic resources (MGR) have proven to be the most controversial aspect of the package deal structure of the ongoing negotiations of a legally binding instrument for the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity beyond national jurisdiction (BBNJ). This has led to a proliferation of scholarly work characterizing the debate on MGR along developed and developing state lines. By applying middle power international relations theory to the Australian delegation's conduct in MGR negotiations, this article aims to challenge the developed/developing state narrative. As such, it advocates a more nuanced approach to understanding state motivation in multilateral treaty negotiations pertaining especially to complex issues such as MGR.
Keywords
Australia, biodiversity beyond national jurisdiction, developed states, developing states, marine genetic resources, middle power
Discipline
Environmental Law | Environmental Policy
Research Areas
Public Interest Law, Community and Social Justice
Publication
Ocean Development and International Law
Volume
52
Issue
2
First Page
143
Last Page
168
ISSN
0090-8320
Identifier
10.1080/00908320.2021.1886449
Publisher
Taylor and Francis
Citation
Beringen, Ethan; LIU, Nengye; and LIM, Michelle Mei Ling.
Australia as a Middle Power: Challenging the narrative of developed/developing states in international negotiations surrounding marine genetic resources. (2021). Ocean Development and International Law. 52, (2), 143-168.
Available at: https://ink.library.smu.edu.sg/sol_research/3960
Additional URL
https://doi.org/10.1080/00908320.2021.1886449