Journal of the Society of Disaster Information ISSN:1976-2208(Print) 2671-5287(Online) 한국재난정보학회논문집

Purpose: As climate change intensifies, extreme weather events and rising sea levels have significantly increased the occurrence of maritime distress incidents. These challenges are particularly acute within Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs), where jurisdictional complexity intersects with international legal obligations. This paper aims to examine the legal and normative issues arising from maritime distress caused by climate change and explore regulatory and cooperative frameworks to enhance rescue operations within EEZs. Method: The study employs a legal and policy analysis approach, reviewing international maritime regulations, legal precedents, and existing cooperative mechanisms related to search and rescue (SAR) operations in EEZs. It also incorporates case studies of maritime distress incidents exacerbated by climate change to identify practical challenges and policy gaps. Result: Findings indicate that while international conventions such as UNCLOS and the SAR Convention provide a framework for maritime rescue, jurisdictional disputes and lack of clear procedural coordination often hinder timely and effective SAR operations in EEZs. The study highlights the need for clearer regulatory guidance and enhanced multinational cooperation to address these gaps. Conclusion: To improve maritime SAR operations within EEZs, it is essential to develop more precise regulatory frameworks, establish coordinated multinational rescue mechanisms, and strengthen diplomatic engagement among coastal states. A balanced approach that respects both state sovereignty and humanitarian rescue obligations is necessary to enhance SAR efficiency in climate-induced maritime distress scenarios.