Flag State
/ˈflæɡ steɪt/
Definitions
- (n.) The country under whose laws a ship is registered and whose flag it flies, granting jurisdiction and regulatory authority over the vessel.
The ship's safety standards are subject to inspection by the flag state.
Forms
- flag state
- flag states
Related terms
See also
Commentary
The term is central in admiralty law; flag states exercise regulatory control and bear responsibility for enforcing international maritime conventions on their vessels.
This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.