On July 21, 2025, international regulators announced they would closely scrutinize deep-sea mining companies seeking U.S. licenses under national law, raising concerns that such firms could be bypassing global governance frameworks. The move follows growing unease among member states of the International Seabed Authority (ISA) over the U.S. government’s recent efforts to issue independent licenses for exploration in international waters. Critics argue this unilateral approach risks undermining existing multilateral agreements designed to regulate mining in the deep ocean and protect fragile ecosystems.
At the same time, U.S. regulators proposed updates to streamline domestic licensing under the Deep Seabed Hard Mineral Resources Act. The changes aim to accelerate permitting and reduce environmental review timelines, as part of a broader policy push to enhance access to critical minerals needed for defense and clean energy. However, environmental groups and Pacific Island nations have expressed concern that these expedited procedures lack adequate safeguards and fail to ensure meaningful consultation with affected communities and neighboring states.
This unfolding situation underscores how the concept of social license to operate extends beyond local communities and into the realm of global governance. In spaces like the deep sea—where no single nation has full jurisdiction—legitimacy depending on international cooperation, environmental accountability, and transparent decision-making. Without broad consensus and inclusive engagement, even legally issued national permits may be perceived as illegitimate, risking reputational damage, diplomatic tension, and resistance from stakeholders across borders.