The South China Sea’s commons: behind and beyond sovereignty disputes

Tensions over conflicting sovereignty claims in the South China Sea, exacerbated by China’s increasingly assertive behaviour and unilateral expansion of its economic activities in the disputed waters, regularly made the headlines. The territorial rows, however, diverted attention from more mundane, yet no less important maritime security issues, which, if neglected, may had grave repercussions for regional stability.

Overfishing, illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing, marine pollution, and the degradation of unique natural habitats are acute problems with lasting consequences. Although the need for cooperation and sustainable management of common resources is well reflected in relevant international legal regimes, the level of compliance of the littoral states remains low.

The right to harvest the South China Sea’s resources is one of the main drivers behind territorial disputes. But if a balance between ownership, responsible stewardship and sustainability is not achieved, there will be not only little to fight over, but also serious additional problems to solve.

By Eva Pejsova

ESO: Background information: East Asia’s security architecture – track two http://www.europeansources.info/record/east-asias-security-architecture-track-two/

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