| Summary/Abstract |
The paper seeks to assess the reasons behind rising tensions in the South China Sea and its implications. It finds that geopolitical significance, abundance of energy resources and fisheries are some of the factors responsible. The rebalance strategy of the United States (US), China’s strategic posture and involvement of claimant and non-claimant actors have intensified tensions by ongoing militarisation in the region. In addition, the dispute has direct impacts on energy security and depletion of fish stocks. It also affects the regional and international order by questioning the efficiency of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the United Nations (UN) to address the tensions properly. However, by analysing the threat potentials, the paper argues that though there is a significant chance of conflict, the claimant parties - China and the US would not involve in any major military confrontation that would hamper their stable working relationship.
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