Contested ocean spaces

A case study of the South China Sea

The waters and islands of the South China Sea are contested by the nations of the region. There are issues of sovereignty and resource exploitation. This article looks at the way nations have exerted their influence to gain power and occupy territory, and at the political and environmental implications

Clive Schofield

Women in Mui Ne, Vietnam, wait on the shore of the South China Sea for the fishermen to return home

For a presentation to support this article go to: www.hoddereducation.co.uk/ geographyreviewextras

The South China Sea is one of the most important yet contested ocean spaces in the world. There are disputes over sovereignty (political ownership) of its many small islands, and competing claims to its waters. These conflicts complicate the management of the South China Sea’s valuable marine environment and resources.