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

Additional URL

https://doi.org/10.1080/00908320.2021.1886449

This document is currently not available here.

Share

COinS