Reflections on the position of the major maritime powers with respect to the UNESCO Convention on the Protection of the Underwater Cultural Heritage 2001

► A brief overview of the UNESCO Convention is provided. ► The concerns of the maritime powers are outlined and evaluated. ► Significant developments since 2001 are highlighted. ► The time may be ripe for the maritime powers to reassess their position. ► The maritime powers may not remain united in opposition to the Convention.