The Global Commons

The global commons - outer space, the atmosphere, oceans and Antarctica - present key problems for global environmental management. Their status and governance is subject to continuing negotiation by state governments, international organizations and a range of non-governmental and transnational actors. This analysis applies regime theory to the question of how these areas, which are beyond national control, can be effectively sustained through international co-operation. The author provides a critical review and synthesis of regime concepts and also sets out to refine and use them.