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Who makes a difference?

We want these people. What characteristics do they have that make them successful both personally and professionally?

Take a few minutes to listen to Hugh Evans. As he recounts his personal history and his hopes for our world, you can see his passion, his willingness to engage in thoughtful reflection and his charisma.  He discusses a definition of a "global citizen" and the tremendous potential power of individuals acting together for a better world. Reduce the distractions around you and listen carefully to "What does it mean to be a citizen of the world?"

What do you know about people who have affected change in their communities, countries or even on an international scale?

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There are many legal issues that require the cooperation of different nations. It is also necessary to have a set of rules to settle disputes or competing interests. The oceans, airspace and outer space are examples of areas that we share. They are also the source of conflict as they are important for trade and communication. The rules that govern these areas have developed over a long period of time. Take a moment to think about competition among countries and concerns regarding control of the seas as you watch the following video.

"What laws apply in international waters?" uses a case study to introduce some of the big concepts in Maritime law. It asks the question: What are international waters and who is in charge?

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  1. What are international waters?
    Answer

    International waters are waters that are beyond a country’s territorial waters. Territorial waters extend 12 nautical miles from the coast.

  1. Which international law protects the freedom to navigate international waters?
    Answer

    United Nation Convention on the Law of the Sea

  1. List the activities that are permitted in international waters. List the activities that are not permitted in international waters.
    Answer

    In international waters it is permissible to lay cables, conduct scientific research, build islands and fish. In international waters it is not permissible to engage in piracy or to traffic people.

  1. Explain the phrase "universal jurisdiction." 
    Answer

    Universal jurisdiction allows for any country to prosecute a criminal regardless of nationality or where the crime was committed. This concept is used because sometimes the country to which a ship is registered refuses to prosecute a particular crime.

  1. Identify areas of conflict that have emerged concerning international waters.
    Answer

    There are competing claims for the Arctic and Antarctic, Somali piracy, South China Sea for example.

It is important to clarify the meaning of the different terms that pertain to international maritime law. Please read the following Canadian Maritime Law Primer.

Maritime law illustrates some of the challenges for international law. Environmental protection, labour issues as well as economic partnerships also present challenges. It is time to look at a particular case or contemporary legal issue in more depth.

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As you know, international legal issues can be complex. Individuals, organizations and governments can make decisions and create policies that are profoundly influential.

Ask yourself: How do they make these decision?

The decision making process requires use of the legal inquiry model. Questions need to be asked and information needs to be gathered.

the inquiry model

Check out this interactive activity. The journalists are trying to learn about piracy by acquiring evidence. Their efforts are a good example of the inquiry process in action. They are applying the inquiry model to investigative journalism.

In order to make good decisions, both domestic governments and the international community must gather information. Sometimes this is achieved through the creation of a backgrounder.

Click on one of the following to read a backgrounder. Please keep in mind that these are professional examples that vary in length and complexity.

Ask yourself as you read: What information does a backgrounder include? Have a quick look at all of the examples provided. Be sure to read at least two thoroughly.

Example 1: China Environmental Crisis

Example 2: Regulatory Cooperation Council

Example 3: Great Lake Beaches

Example 4: Trafficking in Persons for Forced Labour

Example 5: Bill C-45 and the Navigable Waters Protection Act (RSC 1985, C N-22)

Example 6: Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis

Did you notice?

Each of the backgrounders is organized somewhat differently. In most backgrounders you will notice certain elements. The writer may organize the material using questions or subheadings and he or she will generally include an introduction to the issue, a history, current status, controversial aspects, current action being taken and by whom, as well as resources for learning more.

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