Areas beyond national jurisdiction in the strategic documents of NATO and the EU – a comparative analysis

Abstract

Areas beyond national jurisdiction (ABNJs) include Antarctica, outer space, the high seas, and the Area – the seabed beyond national limits. This article explores whether and how NATO and the EU address ABNJs in their strategic documents and identifies key similarities and differences in their approaches. Both organizations recognize the strategic importance of ABNJs, particularly outer space and the high seas, though they engage with these areas in different ways. NATO adopts a defense-oriented stance, emphasizing security and strategic mobility, while the EU promotes rules-based governance, environmental protection, and sustainable use. The EU also engages more broadly with ABNJs like Antarctica and the deep seabed, primarily through environmental and scientific initiatives. These differing approaches reflect their institutional roles, yet converging interests in critical domains suggest growing potential for coordination and complementary action in response to evolving global security challenges.