China-Japan Territorial Disputes in the East China Sea and Their Impact on ASEAN Security

Abstract

The territorial disputes between China and Japan over the Diaoyu/Senkaku Islands in the East China Sea have emerged as the most significant security challenges in the Asia-Pacific region. This study investigates the history of the historical, current dynamics and widespread effects of these disputes for regional security, with special focus on their influence on the organization of Southeast Asian countries (ASEAN). Through the analysis of geopolitical political theories and empirical evidence, this research has shown that China-Japan stress creates a security confusion that directly affects ASEAN's strategic autonomy, economic interests and collective security practices. The findings suggest that Asia's response is characterized by strategic hedging, diplomatic balance and efforts to maintain neutrality while protecting the interests of member countries. The study concludes that the resolution of these controversies is crucial for regional stability and continuous effectiveness of ASEAN as a multilateral organization.