This volume illustrates that much has happened in international fisheries law during the second half of the 20th century and especially since the 1970s. The fisheries provision of the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and the new instruments adopted in its aftermath each mark distinct phases in the development of the global regime for the conservation and management of marine fisheries resources. They reflect the concern that fundamental changes in the international fishery situation have been brought about with the introduction of highly mechanized fishing methods and technologically advanced fleets with no comparable progress in preventing over-exploitation and abuse. The authors of the various chapters in this work present thorough and enlightening analyses of the legal and other issues at stake in contemporary international fisheries law. In so doing, they also illustrate the challenges that lie ahead for states, fishers and the fishing industry and international fisheries organizations. The greatest challenge ahead lies in the practical application of the legal and policy instruments that will foster the sustainable development of marine fisheries activities. Only an effective response will ensure long term sustainable use of the ever diminishing fish resources.