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Simple English definitions for legal terms
right of search
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A quick definition of right of search:
Term: Right of Search
Definition: The right of search is a legal concept in international law that allows a country's navy to stop and search a ship on the high seas to determine if it is carrying goods that could be used to aid an enemy or if it is involved in piracy. This right does not give the navy the authority to destroy the ship without a thorough examination, unless the crew actively resists. The navy officer who boards the ship to conduct the search is called a visitor.
A more thorough explanation:
The right of search is a term used in international law that refers to the right of a belligerent state to stop and examine vessels on the high seas to determine whether they or the goods they carry are liable to capture. This right also includes the right to board and search merchant vessels of neutral states on the high seas if there are suspicious circumstances, such as suspected involvement in piracy.
- A naval officer from a belligerent state stops and searches a neutral merchant vessel on the high seas to determine whether it is carrying contraband goods that could be used to aid the enemy.
- A naval officer boards a merchant vessel suspected of involvement in piracy to search for evidence of illegal activity.
These examples illustrate how the right of search allows belligerent states to take action to protect their interests during times of war or conflict. However, this right must be exercised reasonably and with respect for the rights of neutral states and their vessels.