Question

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.

Answer 1

### Nature of the Conflict in the South China Sea

The South China Sea (SCS) is a region of significant geopolitical importance, characterized by its rich natural resources, including oil, natural gas, and highly productive fishing grounds. The conflict arises from multiple countries asserting territorial claims over various islands and maritime territories. The primary disputants include China, Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, Taiwan, and Brunei, each of which seeks control over the islands and waters of the SCS for access to its resources.

China’s aggressive claims are underscored by its expansion of artificial islands and militarization of the area, while Vietnam and the Philippines have been actively seeking international support, notably from the United States, to counter China's actions. The conflict is exacerbated by historical grievances, national pride, and the strategic importance of the shipping lanes that pass through the SCS.

Key resources being disputed include:

1. **Oil and Natural Gas Reserves**: Estimates suggest that the SCS may hold significant untapped reserves of oil and natural gas.
2. **Fisheries**: The SCS is among the world's richest fishing grounds, and overfishing combined with rising territorial disputes has increased tensions.
3. **Strategic Shipping Lanes**: A significant portion of the world's maritime trade passes through the SCS, making control of this region vital for international trade routes.

Overall, the ongoing territorial disputes over these resources fuel tensions in the region, with nations taking various approaches ranging from diplomatic negotiations to military posturing.

### Sources

1. **Institute for Maritime and Ocean Affairs (IMOA)** - Overview of the South China Sea disputes, including mapping of resource locations using GIS data.
- Link: [IMOA South China Sea Overview](https://www.imoa.ph/south-china-sea-dispute)

2. **The Diplomat** - An article discussing China's expansionism in the South China Sea and reactions from Southeast Asian nations.
- Link: [The Diplomat - South China Sea Disputes](https://thediplomat.com/tag/south-china-sea)

3. **United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD)** - A report illustrating the economic implications of territorial disputes in the SCS region.
- Link: [UNCTAD - Global Value Chains](https://unctad.org/topic/specialized-agency/south-china-sea)

### Critique of Nation Actions

- **China** has taken a notably assertive stance, constructing artificial islands and increasing its military presence. This approach has raised alarm in neighboring countries and has led to increased militarization in response.
- **Vietnam and the Philippines** have sought international support, establishing alliances to strengthen their claims against China. The re-emergence of the U.S. in regional security dialogues underscores their attempt to counterbalance China’s influence.
- **Malaysia and Brunei** have taken more reserved approaches, primarily focused on diplomatic negotiations, even as they contend with similar resource claims.

### Proposed Action Plan

To resolve the dispute effectively, an action plan should include the following recommendations:

1. **Establishment of a Multilateral Dialogue**: All claimants should engage in a dedicated multilateral forum to address territorial disputes collaboratively. Involvement of external stakeholders (like the U.S. and ASEAN) can provide mediation support.

2. **Joint Resource Management Initiatives**: Form bilateral and multilateral agreements for joint exploration and management of resources in contested areas. Sharing benefits can reduce tensions.

3. **Increased Transparency**: All nations should commit to transparency measures regarding military activities in the region and resource exploration efforts to build trust.

4. **Utilization of International Law**: Encouraging all disputing parties to abide by international laws, notably the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), can provide a legal framework for resolving disputes.

In conclusion, the South China Sea conflict requires a balanced approach that values diplomatic negotiation and collaborative resource management to achieve lasting peace and stability in the region.