22 February 2013 | CIL Fireside Chat Series
The South China Sea Disputes: A Role for International Law?
Introduction
The South China Sea has long been a source of tension and potential conflict in the Asia-Pacific region. International law has always framed the discussions on the sovereignty disputes over the islands in the South China Sea as well the potential for these disputed islands to generate maritime claims. However, the question is whether international law can play a meaningful role in the peaceful resolution of the South China Sea disputes.
Hosted by Prof S. Jayakumar and Prof Tommy Koh, the inaugural session of the CIL Fireside Chat Series 2013 featured an international law expert, Professor Robert Beckman, Director of the Centre for International Law (CIL) and an international relations expert, Mr. Lye Liang Fook, Research Fellow at the East Asian Institute (EAI) and formerly from the Singapore Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Prof Beckman examined the South China Sea disputes from an international law perspective and Mr. Lye discussed China’s view on the role of international law in resolving these disputes. The aim of the discussion was to explore the advantages and limitations of using international law to settle contentious and intractable disputes between States.
Note: The Chatham House Rule applies for the CIL Fireside Chat Series.
Panelists & Hosts
Panelists:
Robert Beckman, Director, CIL
Lye Liang Fook, Research Fellow, EAI
Hosts:
Professor S. Jayakumar
Professor Tommy Koh
About the Fireside Chat Series
Hosted by Prof S Jayakumar and Prof Tommy Koh, two of Singapore’s eminent diplomats and international lawyers, the CIL Fireside Chat Series will explore the interplay between diplomacy and international law by inviting leading experts on international affairs to share their insights on important global issues. The CIL Fireside Chat Series provides a rare opportunity for attendees to have a free and frank discussion with renowned authorities on critical topics which have challenged the international community.
