Some institutional implications of the establishment of exclusive economic zones by EC member states

Abstract

This article considers the position of the European Community (EC) in the current discussions relating to the possible establishment of EEZs in the North Sea. It aims to provide information on the structure and powers of the EC necessary to understand how the EC might affect the practice of its member states in establishing and implementing such a development. It outlines the general institutional structure of the EC, its decision‐making and legislative powers and procedures. It considers the position of the EC as an international actor and then, from a general perspective, examines some of the issues of geographical and sectoral competences. It assesses the current discussions and concludes that an EC EEL in the first instance is unlikely to be a radical new concept.