United States and the Spratly Islands: Six Actors, Which Stage

摘要

This paper explores the current United States policy toward the Spratly Islands and analyzes the pros and cons of maintaining this policy. Additionally, it explores/analyzes at least two other policy options that the United States might take toward the islands, in light of current events within the region. Methodology: Research the national interest of the six nations that claim ownership of this area and the national interest/strategic importance of the six nations to the United States. The focus is whether the United States should enter the squabble and if so, on whose side. The paper includes a brief background on the Spratly Islands (location, natural resources, and historical claims of ownership.) Following this is an analysis of why each of the six nations claiming ownership feels these uninhabited islands are important to their national interest. The analysis also looks at why and/or how these Asia- Pacific relationships, between each other and with nations outside of the region, affect the national interest of the United States. The conclusion recommends a United States strategy including ends, ways, and means to support its national interest in these islands and one or more of the nations claiming ownership.