South China Sea Dispute: Strategic Analysis, International Relations, and Grey Zone Tactics

Iskandar, Aang

South China Sea Dispute - Strategic Analysis and Grey Zone Tactics
Picture: Adopted from i-stock

Read the full PDF on the South China Sea Dispute

1. Introduction

This research paper delves into the South China Sea dispute, focusing on its relevance to border security, Strategic Analysis, International Relations, and Grey Zone tactics. By examining the interplay between political power, territorial space, and strategic security, this study highlights the South China Sea as a critical case study in global geopolitics.

2. Literature Review

Scholars like Yoshimatsu, Wong, and Nicole emphasize the South China Sea dispute’s significance in understanding Chinese behavior, conflict management strategies, and regional security dynamics. The involvement of major powers like the United States and Japan further complicates the situation, creating a security dilemma that hinders cooperation among claimant states.

3. Multiscalarity in the South China Sea Disputes

The concept of multiscalarity is crucial for understanding the South China Sea dispute. It highlights how local, regional, and global factors interact to shape border security. Issues like maritime governance, economic interests, and environmental concerns are interconnected, making the dispute a complex mix of social, economic, and geopolitical factors.

Area claimed by China in the South China Sea
Figure 1. The area claimed by China

4. Securing Border Spaces in the South China Sea

The South China Sea is a hotspot for geopolitical tensions, with countries like China, Vietnam, and the Philippines vying for control. The dispute involves conflicting conceptual and cartographic borders, military activities, and land reclamation projects, all of which complicate efforts to resolve the issue peacefully.

Claims on the South China Sea
Figure 2. Claims on the South China Sea

5. Implications of the South China Sea Dispute on Border Security

The South China Sea dispute has far-reaching implications for border security, maritime governance, and regional stability. The involvement of major powers and the use of Grey Zone tactics have reshaped the geopolitical landscape, necessitating a comprehensive approach to border management and conflict resolution.

China’s land reclamation in the South China Sea
Figure 3. China’s land reclamation on Paracel Islands, Scarborough Shoal, and Spratly Island

6. Conclusion

The South China Sea dispute serves as a critical case study for understanding the complexities of border security, Strategic Analysis, and International Relations in the modern world. By adopting a multiscalar approach and prioritizing diplomatic negotiations, stakeholders can work towards peaceful and sustainable solutions in the region.

Bibliography

  • Yoshimatsu, Hidetaka. “China, Japan and the South China Sea Dispute: Pursuing Strategic Goals Through Economic and Institutional Means.” Journal of Asian Security and International Affairs 4, no. 3 (2017).
  • Wong, Audrye. “More than Peripheral: How Provinces Influence China’s Foreign Policy.” The China Quarterly 235 (2018).
  • Jenne, Nicole. “Managing Territorial Disputes in Southeast Asia: Is There More than the South China Sea?” Journal of Current Southeast Asian Affairs 36, no. 3 (2017).
  • Tréglodé, Benoît De. “Maritime Boundary Delimitation and Sino-Vietnamese Cooperation in the Gulf of Tonkin (1994-2016).” China Perspectives 2016, no. 3 (2016).
  • Zha, Daojiong. “Security in the South China Sea.” Sage Publications 26, no. 1 (2001).