Theoretical exploration of the order transformation in global ocean governance and China's strategic response

Abstract

The world is undergoing a profound transformation of unprecedented scale in a century, with global maritime affairs emerging as a central focus of concern for nations across the globe. The current state of global ocean governance has evolved into a new phase defined by structural realignment and a shift in the established order. The geopolitical games played by major powers around the formulation of maritime rules are exerting a profound and far-reaching impact on the very evolution of the global ocean governance framework. From November 11 to 12, 2023, the Academy of Ocean of China hosted the "Global Ocean Governance and China's Maritime Strategy" academic seminar in Wuhan, China. This high-level convening brought together over a hundred distinguished scholars, researchers, and policymakers from leading maritime universities, think tanks, and government agencies to engage in substantive discussions on the emerging issues and pressing challenges facing global ocean governance. This seminar facilitated cross-disciplinary and cross-institutional knowledge sharing and exchange, which has helped the various stakeholders develop a more accurate understanding of the evolving dynamics and future trajectory of global maritime affairs. In doing so, it has provided strategic choices and think tank support for how China can engage in and contribute to future global ocean governance in a constructive manner. Concurrently, the seminar has also facilitated the international community's understanding of China's maritime development philosophy, thereby enhancing the level of cooperation and policy formulation among nations in the realm of global ocean governance.