CMSI Archive Translation: On the Legality of Applying Straight Baselines to China’s Mid-Ocean Archipelagos A Perspective from Customary International Law

Authors

Zhang Hua

Abstract

This article provides a legal basis for applying straight baselines to China’s mid-ocean archipelagos (Paracels and Diaoyu Islands), arguing that it is justified by customary international law rather than analogy with UNCLOS Articles 7 or 47. The practice, supported by multiple states, constitutes a "sui generis" straight baseline. The author argues that the legality of these baselines depends on the islands constituting a legal "unit". Critiques from the US that rely on UNCLOS’s restrictive water-to-land ratios and maximum lengths are invalid because these limitations do not apply to sui generis baselines derived from customary law.

Recommended Citation

Zhang Hua (2026) "CMSI Archive Translation: On the Legality of Applying Straight Baselines to China’s Mid-Ocean Archipelagos A Perspective from Customary International Law," CMSI Quarterly Review: Vol. 1: No. 3, Article 14.
Available at: https://digital-commons.usnwc.edu/cmsi-quarterly-review/vol1/iss3/14