Analysis of the Role of International Law in the Resolution of the South China Sea Conflict

Abstract

The South China Sea conflict represents one of the most contentious and complex territorial disputes in contemporary international relations. This study aims to analyze the role of international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and related legal frameworks, in addressing disputes over territorial claims and maritime boundaries among the claimant states. Employing a qualitative methodology, this research examines key legal principles, relevant case studies, and the rulings of international tribunals, including the 2016 arbitral decision under the Permanent Court of Arbitration. The findings highlight the dual role of international law: as a normative framework for equitable dispute resolution and as a tool for reinforcing state sovereignty in contentious areas. Despite its potential, the study identifies challenges such as non-compliance by certain states and limitations in enforcement mechanisms, which hinder the effective resolution of the conflict. This research underscores the necessity for stronger multilateral cooperation and adherence to international legal norms to achieve a peaceful and sustainable resolution. The implications of this study are significant for policymakers, legal practitioners, and scholars in the field of international law and conflict resolution.