The Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) is an international treaty that establishes guidelines for the use and conservation of the world's oceans. Adopted in 1982, it defines the rights and responsibilities of nations regarding their use of ocean resources, navigation, and environmental protection. The convention aims to balance the interests of coastal states with those of other nations. UNCLOS covers various topics, including territorial waters, exclusive economic zones, and the continental shelf. It also addresses issues like marine pollution and the conservation of marine biodiversity. The treaty has been ratified by over 160 countries, making it a key framework for international maritime law.