Date of Conferral

2-21-2025

Degree

Doctor of Public Administration (D.P.A)

School

Public Policy and Administration

Advisor

Mark Gordon

Abstract

There is a significant gap in the scholarly literature on the Association of Southeast Asia Nations’s (ASEAN's) internal divisions and policy inconsistencies in responding to China's expansion in the South China Sea that considers national interests, economic dependencies, and security concerns. There is no cohesive regional strategy. This study examined the ASEAN’s responses to Chinese expansionism in the South China Sea, focusing on the Second Thomas Shoal. It addressed the research question: how have historical, economic, and strategic factors influenced ASEAN's collective and individual member state responses to China's actions. Territorial peace theory and constructivist perspectives were used to analyze ASEAN's policymaking and diplomatic strategies. A qualitative case study was used to analyze archival data, such as policy statements and white papers. Findings revealed a divide between littoral and non-littoral states. Vietnam and the Philippines asserted maritime claims through military posturing and legal interventions under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). Concurrently, landlocked states such as Cambodia and Laos prioritized economic ties with China, adopting a more reserved posture. Positive social change might be possible if ASEAN strengthens its political and policy commitment to protect marine biodiversity under UNCLOS. This might reduce internal divisions, mitigate economic dependency, and enhance regional cohesion. ASEAN can promote sustainable regional stability by reinforcing institutional frameworks for conflict resolution and environmental security.

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