ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book explores the legal challenges associated with the role of United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea in managing maritime order in East Asia. It provides an overview of the political state of affairs in the South China Sea, especially in the context of China–Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) relations. The book discusses the application of the law of the sea to the thorny mix of rival claims in the South China Sea. The significance of the issues is underscored not only by the large scope of the claims, but also by the divergent views of the contending parties. It is to be hoped that a careful assessment of applicable international law and thoughtful review by parties of the benefits of reduced tension in the South China Sea will facilitate the peaceful resolution of the globe's most complex maritime dispute.
