The Aegean dispute: the battle for marine protected areas

The dispute over marine protected areas in the Aegean has reignited tensions between Greece and Turkey, marking a new chapter in their long-standing territorial conflict. On August 15, Turkey announced the establishment of two marine parks in disputed waters, prompting immediate condemnation from Greek authorities. The move comes amid a fragile period of improved relations following a major earthquake in Turkey in February 2023 and subsequent support from Greece. Despite this temporary thaw, neither country has taken meaningful steps to resolve their longstanding disputes over maritime boundaries, which have remained unresolved for decades. The newly declared marine parks were located in the northeastern Aegean, near the Greek islands of Limnos and Samothrace, and in the eastern Mediterranean, surrounding the island of Kastelorizo. These areas fall within Greek exclusive economic zones, according to Greek officials, who argue that Turkey’s actions violate international law. The Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs called the measure “illegal,” stating that such parks established outside Turkish territorial waters lack legal effect. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis emphasized during a cabinet meeting on August 24 that Greece would defend its sovereignty, asserting that the territories under Greek control are clearly defined by international law. This latest escalation follows similar moves by Greece earlier in 2022, when it announced the creation of marine parks in the Ionian Islands and southern Cyclades, all within Greek territorial waters. At the time, Turkey had warned against unilateral measures in enclosed or semi-enclosed seas like the Aegean and Mediterranean. Yet, despite these warnings, Turkey proceeded with its own declaration, seemingly without prior consultation. Both countries claim to prioritize environmental protection through these initiatives, yet analysts suggest the true motivation lies elsewhere. Environmental experts note that the Aegean and eastern Mediterranean are ecologically sensitive regions, home to diverse marine life. However, both nations appear to be using the designation of marine parks as a strategic tool rather than a genuine conservation effort. If they genuinely sought to protect marine ecosystems, they could have pursued cooperative measures instead of competing for influence in disputed waters. The announcement of these parks appears to be part of a broader geopolitical strategy aimed at asserting dominance over the region. Greece accuses Turkey of employing the “Mavi Vatan” doctrine, literally translated as “Blue Homeland”, to challenge its maritime claims. This doctrine asserts Turkish sovereignty over parts of Greece’s exclusive economic zone and the territory of Cyprus. It also questions the sovereignty of numerous small Greek islands and islets. According to Greek officials, the recent marine park declarations align with this revisionist approach, aiming to redefine maritime boundaries in Turkey’s favor. Turkey, meanwhile, maintains that its actions are consistent with international law and necessary for environmental preservation. The country argues that the Aegean and eastern Mediterranean require urgent protection due to increasing industrial activity and climate change impacts. However, Greece dismisses these claims, insisting that Turkey’s primary interest lies in expanding its maritime jurisdiction and securing access to natural resources. As the situation escalates, both sides remain entrenched in their positions, with little indication of compromise. The dispute over maritime boundaries continues to shape diplomatic relations between the two neighbors, complicating efforts to build trust and cooperation. With no signs of resolution in sight, the Aegean remains a flashpoint where political rivalries and environmental concerns collide.