---
title: "Area Definition in International Law | Model Diplomat"
description: "The Area refers to the seabed beyond national jurisdiction, recognized as common heritage of mankind under UNCLOS, vital for international policy research."
url: "https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/glossary/area"
---

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Model Diplomat Research Team · Last reviewed June 22, 2026

TL;DR

- The Area is the seabed, ocean floor, and subsoil beyond the limits of national jurisdiction, declared the common heritage of mankind under Part XI of UNCLOS.
- What legal principle governs the Area, and where does it originate?
- Which body administers the Area and where is it located?
- How does the Area differ from the high seas?
- What is the 'parallel system' in exploiting the Area?

[Civil Service & Diplomatic Exams](https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/civil-services/glossary)Updated June 22, 2026

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In 2021, the Pacific island State of Nauru triggered the "two-year rule" at the International Seabed Authority on behalf of its sponsored contractor Nauru Ocean Resources, forcing accelerated negotiation of deep-seabed mining regulations for the Area.

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