UNCLOS lacks full force and effectiveness unless it is universally accepted

The Convention on the Law of the Sea creates an interdependence of nations with obligations affecting all marine areas and activities.³⁵⁹ The effectiveness of the legal framework of this Convention truly depends upon its universal acceptance.³⁶⁰ Although the language of the Convention appears to obligate both parties and non-parties to the Convention, according to the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties, the Convention does not automatically create rights or obligations for third parties.³⁶¹ However, the codification of the customary international law found in UNCLOS is applicable to the entire international community. This is because the Vienna Convention allows for third states to accept the rights and obligations offered under UNCLOS in accordance of Articles 35 and 36 of the Vienna Convention.³⁶² While most of the Convention will be applicable as customary international law, the lack of universal acceptance of the Convention will leave the legal order of UNCLOS without its full effect rendering the institutions set by the Convention powerless.