The Artificial Construction and Modification of Maritime Features: Piling Pelion on Ossa

Abstract Coastal states create and modify maritime features. The law of the sea recognizes the existence of artificial islands, installations, and structures. It also defines islands and low-tide elevations as “naturally formed” areas of land. Thus far, however, these concepts have been ambiguously interpreted and applied. This article puts forward a clearer approach. It reemphasizes some of the fundamental principles of international law by demonstrating that a feature’s capability of sovereign appropriation should determine its legal treatment.