The outer limit of the continental shelf in the Arctic Ocean

This paper reviews an earlier determination of the outer continental shelf limit for the whole of the Arctic Ocean, taking into account issues raised in 2002 by the Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf during its consideration of the Arctic component of the Russian Federation's submission. Recognizing that these issues touch upon some of the more contentious aspects of UNCLOS article 76 (i.e. submarine ridges and cut-off lines), this study includes an attempt to revise the earlier outer shelf limit in a manner that might meet with the approval of the Commission. This is followed by a discussion of related topics that could impact the implementation of article 76 in the Arctic and in other regions.