Turkey prepares 'Blue Homeland' law to protect maritime rights and jurisdiction

Work has begun in Turkey on a comprehensive draft law aimed at strengthening the legal framework that protects the country's sovereign rights in maritime zones and regulates activities in international waters. This was reported by TRT Haber.

The new legislative initiative involves the systematization of existing norms and the elimination of legal gaps related to maritime jurisdiction. The law is intended to unite disparate provisions into a single structure, ensuring legal consistency and strengthening control over maritime territories.

A key element of the project will be the consolidation of the legal status of the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and the boundaries of Turkey's continental shelf. The document will also define the legal framework for Ankara's actions within its maritime jurisdiction, including areas extending into international waters.

Particular attention is paid to the so-called 'gray zones' of the Aegean Sea — areas with unregulated status of islands, islets, and rocks, which are traditionally the subject of disagreement between Turkey and Greece. Their legal definition is planned to be included within the framework of the 'Blue Homeland' concept in accordance with international maritime law.

Preparation of the draft law is being carried out in coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkey, and also taking into account technical reports from the Turkish Armed Forces and the Navy Command. In the development process, a comparative analysis of international maritime law norms and national legislation is being conducted.

The project is also expected to reflect the strategic principles of the 'Blue Homeland' maritime doctrine, enshrining its provisions at the legislative level. After completion, the document is planned to be presented to the Grand National Assembly of Turkey after the Eid al-Adha holiday.