Competition for Natural Resources in the South China Sea: Geopolitical Analysis and Security in the Southeast Asian Region

Abstract

The South China Sea conflict is a geopolitical issue involving China and Southeast Asian countries, including the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Brunei Darussalam. In addition to being a strategically located region for trade routes, the South China Sea also possesses significant naturalresources, including oil, fisheries, and natural gas, which have led to territorial disputes and rivalries among several countries in the region. This study aims to analyze how these natural resources can influence the geopolitical situation and regional stability, particularly in Southeast Asian countries. This study uses descriptive analysis and a qualitative approach, with data collection techniques through literature review. The competition in the South China Sea can be analyzed through realism theory, with a security dilemma approach. According to (Morgenthau, 1949), realism is based on the assumption that the drive for power is a fundamental characteristic of inter-state relations, stemming from human nature itself. In the context of the South China Sea, territorial disputes not only reflect economic interests such as the exploitation of natural resources, but also strategic ambitions to maintain sovereignty and regional influence. The concept of the security dilemma, as proposed by (Ken Booth, 2008), explains that uncertainty about the intentions of one country can trigger a military response from another country China’s assertive actions heighten mistrust, creating a security paradox where efforts to increase security lead to greater instability. This study focuses on analyzing the geopolitical stability and security of the Southeast Asian region, as well as understanding the role of diplomacy and multilateral cooperation in the region.