As part of a joint ICLARM-Resources for the Future, Inc. program, in June 1977 the author undertook a 9-month study whose objectives were to examine changes taking place in the law of the sea, identify the likely effects, and stimulate further research and thinking about problems facing those who will be making decisions on fisheries management. Although the major areas of concern were Southeast Asia and the South Pacific, the study has general relevance to other regions of the world.