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in: Protecting cultural property: Multiple mechanisms for a single objective (Ius Gentium: Comparative Perspectives on Law and Justice, N. Ekşi,T. Jere Jakulin,G. Dardeniz,& O. Quirico, Editor, Springer Nature, Geneve, pp.15-51, 2026
Underwater cultural heritage constitutes a crucial part of humanity’s shared history, encapsulated in the remnants found in oceans, lakes, and rivers worldwide. These sites, including ancient shipwrecks, submerged settlements, and artefacts from naval battles, are invaluable for understanding past human civiliza
tions and their interaction with maritime environments. Despite their significance, this heritage faces threats from natural decay, illegal looting, commercial exploita
tion, and climate change, making their preservation a matter of urgency. This study underlines the importance of existing legal frameworks, particularly the UNESCO 2001 Convention, in safeguarding this heritage. It delves into the challenges faced by conservation laws and explores strategies for effective preservation. Through case studies in Türkiye, the chapter highlights the role of technological innova
tion and emphasizes the need for a multidisciplinary approach involving sustainable development, education, and cultural tourism. The study calls for international cooperation and public awareness to enhance the protection and sustainable man
agement of underwater cultural heritage.