ABSTRACT
The chapter focuses on two principal purposes: exploration and explanation of the development of the term and the concept of maritime governance, as well as identification of the dissertation’s theoretical framework. Presenting the historical background, it shows the relevance of the utilisation of governance and maritime governance as the adequate description of the sustainability, complexity, and dynamics of individual and cooperative activities of states and institutions in the seas and oceans. Their relevance corresponds with the necessity of cooperation considering the borderless phenomena and human activities covering ocean space within and beyond state jurisdiction. Despite the growing pressure on states from institutions and non-state actors, their role has been maintained as providers of security, legal order, and models for sustainable, inclusive development.
