A notification of radioactive materials shipment and the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea

It is important to provide appropriate information on safety to relevant coastal States in advance of shipments of radioactive materials. This will improve mutual understanding and confidence regarding shipments of radioactive materials, as recommended by the IAEA general conference resolution, however it is not obligatory, and is on a voluntary basis. In addition, the information provided should not contradict measures of physical protection and safety. Furthermore, a ship has a right to free navigation based on the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and is not obliged to give pre-notification. However, such notification is assumed when there are special regulations such as traffic separation schemes in internal waters or territorial sea. (author)