ASEAN, China and the South China Sea Territorial Disputes: Analysis of Conflict Management Strategies

Abstract

This article analyses the effectiveness of existing mechanisms in
ASEAN in addressing the South China Sea dispute with China. It highlights
the ASEAN’s position on the issues as well as examines China’s approaches
in asserting sovereignty over the disputed waters and further the responses
of other claimant states towards China’s actions. This article utilises both
primary and secondary sources including official ASEAN documents, meeting
proceedings, speeches from ASEAN Leaders and Ministers, media releases,
as well as presentations from the ASEAN Summits. The analysis of ASEAN’s
efforts derives from the work of ASEAN-led security mechanisms, ASEANChina
Relations and other frameworks in managing the disputes. This article
establishes that ASEAN have played a major role to preserve peace and security
among its member states and between China.