Konflik Maritim di Laut Cina Selatan: Perspektif Hukum Internasional dan Diplomasi Indonesia

The South China Sea, a vital waterway teeming with maritime traffic and rich in natural resources, has become a focal point of geopolitical tension. Territorial disputes, overlapping claims, and competing interests have fueled a complex maritime conflict, drawing in regional and global powers. This article delves into the legal and diplomatic dimensions of the South China Sea conflict, focusing on Indonesia's perspective and its role in navigating this intricate web of competing claims.

The Legal Framework: Navigating the UNCLOS

The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), often referred to as the "Constitution of the Oceans," provides the primary legal framework for regulating maritime activities. It establishes a comprehensive set of rules governing navigation, resource exploitation, and environmental protection in international waters. However, the application of UNCLOS principles to the South China Sea remains contentious, with different interpretations of maritime zones and historical claims fueling the conflict.

China's assertion of a "nine-dash line" encompassing vast swathes of the South China Sea, including areas within the exclusive economic zones (EEZs) of neighboring countries, has been met with strong opposition. This claim, based on historical precedent and a perceived right to sovereignty over the entire region, contradicts the UNCLOS framework, which emphasizes the principle of territorial sovereignty based on landmass and the delimitation of maritime zones according to specific criteria.

Indonesia's Position: Balancing Interests and Promoting Stability

Indonesia, a non-claimant state in the South China Sea, has adopted a pragmatic approach to the conflict, prioritizing its national interests while advocating for peaceful resolution. Indonesia's position is rooted in its commitment to the UNCLOS framework and its desire to maintain regional stability.

Indonesia's primary concern lies in safeguarding its maritime domain, particularly its EEZ in the northern part of the South China Sea. The country has consistently maintained that its EEZ is defined by the UNCLOS provisions, rejecting any claims that encroach upon its sovereign rights. Indonesia has also expressed concerns about the potential for escalation of tensions in the region, emphasizing the need for dialogue and cooperation to prevent conflict.

Diplomatic Engagement: Fostering Dialogue and Cooperation

Indonesia has actively engaged in diplomatic efforts to promote dialogue and cooperation among the parties involved in the South China Sea dispute. The country has participated in regional forums, such as the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), to foster a common understanding of the issues and to encourage peaceful resolution.

Indonesia's diplomatic strategy has focused on promoting a code of conduct for the South China Sea, a framework that would establish guidelines for maritime activities and prevent potential conflicts. The country has also advocated for the peaceful settlement of disputes through international law, emphasizing the importance of adhering to UNCLOS principles and seeking arbitration when necessary.

Conclusion: A Path Towards Peaceful Resolution

The South China Sea conflict remains a complex and multifaceted challenge, requiring a nuanced approach that balances national interests with regional stability. Indonesia's position, rooted in international law and a commitment to peaceful resolution, offers a valuable perspective on navigating this intricate web of competing claims. By promoting dialogue, fostering cooperation, and upholding the principles of UNCLOS, Indonesia plays a crucial role in shaping a path towards a peaceful and sustainable future for the South China Sea.