Use information from this lesson to identify how natural resources are being used to
cause conflict in the South China Sea. Conduct research online to locate at least three
primary or secondary sources that describe the current territorial dispute in the South
China Sea. Be sure that at least one of your sources uses GIS data to illustrate the
types and locations of this region's resources. Identify which resources are being
disputed, who is involved, and what is being done. Then, critique the actions of
different nations by evaluating the information you find online. Finally, take a stance
and give your opinion, using evidence from your sources to describe an action plan
that should be taken to solve the dispute.
Record your answers below.
Search online for at least three reputable sources that describe the territorial
disputes occurring in the South China Sea. Summarize in your own words the
nature of the conflict, then provide the links to your sources.
Description of the conflict,
including who is involved,
what resources are being
disputed, and what is
being done.
The territorial disputes in the South China Sea involve several countries, including China, Vietnam, Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei, and Taiwan. The main resources being disputed in the South China Sea are oil and gas reserves, fishing grounds, and potential mineral deposits.
1. Source: "South China Sea: What's at Stake?"
Summary: This article provides an overview of the conflict, detailing the claims made by each country involved. It highlights the importance of the South China Sea as a trade route and its vast reserves of oil and gas. The disputes primarily revolve around the Spratly Islands and the Paracel Islands.
Link: https://www.cfr.org/backgrounder/south-china-sea-disputes
2. Source: "South China Sea: A Resource Controversy"
Summary: This source discusses how the South China Sea is crucial for global energy and resource security due to its estimated oil and gas reserves. It mentions the presence of valuable fisheries and the potential for rare mineral resources. The article also mentions the use of GIS data to illustrate the distribution of resources in the region.
Link: https://www.wwf.org.au/news/blogs/south-china-sea-a-resource-controversy#gs.ixsuzv
3. Source: "Territorial disputes in the South China Sea: Implications for regional security"
Summary: This academic paper analyzes the territorial disputes in the South China Sea and their implications for regional security. It explores the conflicting maritime claims, the role of resource disputes, and the involvement of major powers such as the United States. The paper also discusses the use of GIS technology for resource mapping in the region.
Link: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12140-011-9127-2
Critique of actions by different nations:
China's aggressive actions and unilateral claims in the South China Sea have been a primary driver of conflict, disregarding international law and infringing upon the rights of other claimants. Vietnam and the Philippines have also engaged in militarization to protect their claims, leading to increased tension in the region.
Opinion and action plan:
To solve the territorial disputes in the South China Sea, it is crucial for all claimant countries to engage in peaceful negotiations and adhere to the principles of international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). A multilateral approach, involving regional organizations such as ASEAN, could help facilitate dialogue and cooperation. Additionally, establishing joint resource-sharing agreements and implementing sustainable fishing practices can promote cooperation and prevent conflicts over resources.
what is being done
Currently, there are several efforts being made to address the territorial disputes in the South China Sea:
1. Diplomatic negotiations: Countries involved in the territorial disputes have engaged in diplomatic negotiations to find a peaceful resolution. The ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) has been leading discussions and facilitating dialogues between claimant states. However, progress has been slow due to the complex and politically sensitive nature of the issue.
2. Arbitration case: In 2013, the Philippines filed a case against China at the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) regarding their territorial dispute in the South China Sea. In 2016, the PCA ruled in favor of the Philippines, stating that China's claims had no legal basis. However, China rejected the ruling and continues to assert its claims.
3. Code of Conduct: There have been ongoing negotiations between ASEAN and China to establish a Code of Conduct (COC) in the South China Sea. The COC aims to set guidelines for behavior and prevent further escalation of tensions. Although progress has been made, the adoption of a binding and effective COC has yet to be achieved.
4. Presence of military forces: Many countries involved in the territorial disputes have increased their military presence in the South China Sea to protect their claims and assert their rights. This has led to heightened tensions and the risk of accidental clashes.
Overall, while diplomatic efforts and legal proceedings have been undertaken, the territorial disputes in the South China Sea remain unresolved, and there is a need for continuous dialogue and cooperation among the involved nations to find a peaceful and sustainable resolution.
In a paragraph of 3-5 sentences, choose two of the nations involved in the conflict and critique their actions. Are their actions justified or unjustified? Legal or illegal? Moral or immoral? How does the evidence in your sources support your critique?
One of the nations involved in the South China Sea conflict is China. Many critiques argue that China's actions in the region are unjustified, illegal, and immoral. China has been engaging in aggressive tactics, including the building of artificial islands and militarization of disputed areas, which goes against international law and the principles of peaceful resolution. Furthermore, China's unilateral claims and disregard for the rights of other claimants have contributed to heightened tensions. The evidence from sources highlights China's assertive behavior and violations of international law, supporting the critique of its actions in the South China Sea conflict.
Another nation involved in the conflict is the Philippines. While some argue that the Philippines' actions are justified in protecting their rights and sovereignty, there are also criticisms of their approach. The decision to file an arbitration case against China at the PCA was seen as a peaceful and legal means to resolve the dispute. However, it can be argued that the Philippines should have taken a more diplomatic approach to engage in direct negotiations with China. Some critiques also raise concerns about the militarization of the disputed areas by the Philippines, which could contribute to further tensions. The evidence from sources provides insights into the Philippines' actions and allows for a nuanced critique of the nation's approach to the South China Sea conflict.
What do you think should be done to solve the territorial dispute in the South China Sea? Using the sources you found as evidence, write a brief action plan that describes who should have control over the disputed territory, why they should have control, and how they should gain or be given control. Using these questions to help your answer:
a) In your opinion how do you think the conflict in the South China Sea should be resolved?
b) Who should have control over the disputed territory?
c) Why should they have control?
d) How will they gain or be given control?
a) In my opinion, the conflict in the South China Sea should be resolved through peaceful negotiations and adherence to international law. A multilateral approach involving all claimant countries, facilitated by regional organizations such as ASEAN, should be pursued to find a fair and mutually acceptable solution.
b) Control over the disputed territory should be shared among the claimant countries. Instead of one nation having exclusive control, a cooperative and joint management framework should be implemented. This approach would ensure that all countries involved have a stake in the region's resources and cooperate in its sustainable development.
c) Shared control is the most reasonable option because the South China Sea is a vital maritime area for international trade, and its resources are of global importance. No single country should have absolute control, as it could lead to monopolization and exploitation. Shared control would promote stability, cooperation, and the equitable sharing of benefits among the claimant countries.
d) To establish shared control, a legally binding Code of Conduct (COC) should be adopted by all claimant countries, in accordance with international law, including UNCLOS. The COC should outline rules and guidelines for behavior, resource-sharing, and dispute resolution mechanisms. Additionally, joint resource-sharing agreements, regulated by an international body, could be established to ensure fair utilization of resources. Regular dialogues, diplomatic negotiations, and confidence-building measures should also be encouraged to maintain peaceful relations and prevent conflicts.