U.S. accession to UNCLOS would be a powerful signal of U.S. maritime leadership
The fear that U.S. interests will be dominated by the interests of other Member States is overstated by critics of UNCLOS.196 U.S. accession will be a landmark event in UNCLOS’ history and will make waves throughout the international community.197 The reemergence of the U.S. will make a considerable impression and will only grow over time.198 Former U.S. Army General and the 18th Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Martin Dempsey, stated the impact best when he said “We have the world’s largest and most capable Navy, the world’s largest economy and the largest Exclusive Economic Zone. We will become the leader within the Convention as soon as we enter it, and that’s never been more important” [emphasis added].199 To properly reassert itself as an influential player, relevant leader, and active participant in the affairs of the oceans, the U.S. must accede to UNCLOS.200