SAMPLE POSITION PAPER

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COMMITTEE: United Nations Security Council (UNSC)​
AGENDA: De-escalating Tensions Regarding the
Construction and Increased Militarization of Islands in the
Waters of East Asia
DELEGATION: Socialist Republic of Vietnam

(General Introduction)

The South China Sea remains one of the most contentious maritime disputes in modern
geopolitics, with multiple nations asserting claims over various islands, reefs, and waters.
Central to this dispute is the militarization of islands and artificial land reclamation,
particularly by the People’s Republic of China (PRC). These actions have intensified regional
tensions, threatening freedom of navigation, regional stability, and the economic security of
Southeast Asian nations. Given the strategic importance of these waters, it is imperative that
the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) facilitates a peaceful resolution based on
international law.

(Background Information)

The South China Sea is a critical global trade route, with over $3.37 trillion worth of
trade passing through it annually. The region is also rich in fisheries, oil, and natural gas
reserves, making it a hotspot for territorial disputes. The primary claimants in these
disputes are China, Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei, and Taiwan. The United
Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) of 1982 serves as the primary
legal framework governing maritime rights, particularly Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs).
However, China’s Nine-Dash Line claim disregards UNCLOS, leading to numerous
conflicts.

China’s land reclamation projects and subsequent militarization of artificial islands, such as
Fiery Cross Reef, Mischief Reef, and Subi Reef, have escalated tensions. These
islands now host airstrips, radar systems, and missile batteries, which increase the
potential for conflict. Vietnam, the Philippines, and other ASEAN nations have consistently
opposed China’s expansionist policies, calling for legal arbitration and diplomatic
resolutions.

(Previous efforts)
Past International Efforts to Solve the Issue

1.​ The 2016 PCA Ruling (Philippines v. China): The Permanent Court of
Arbitration ruled that China’s claims had no legal basis and that its island-building
activities violated the sovereign rights of other nations. However, China refused to
recognize the ruling.
2.​ Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (2002):
ASEAN and China agreed to refrain from activities that escalate tensions, but China
has repeatedly ignored these guidelines.
3.​ UNCLOS 1982: Provides a legal framework for maritime disputes, but enforcement
remains weak without international compliance mechanisms.
4.​ Bilateral and Multilateral Talks: ASEAN and China have engaged in Code of
Conduct (COC) negotiations, but China has stalled progress, preferring bilateral
deals to exert influence over individual nations.

Vietnam’s Position on the Issue

Vietnam firmly asserts its sovereignty over the Paracel Islands (Hoàng Sa) and the
Spratly Islands (Trường Sa) based on historical claims and adherence to UNCLOS.
Vietnam rejects China’s militarization efforts and supports the enforcement of
international law to resolve disputes. While Vietnam does maintain defensive
infrastructure on its occupied islands, these measures are solely for national security and
civilian purposes, unlike China’s offensive militarization.

Vietnam’s Past Efforts to Solve the Issue

1.​ Legal Advocacy: Vietnam has repeatedly called for the implementation of
UNCLOS and the 2016 PCA ruling as binding frameworks for dispute resolution.
2.​ ASEAN Diplomacy: Vietnam actively participates in Code of Conduct (COC)
negotiations, advocating for a legally binding agreement to regulate military
activities in contested waters.
3.​ Bilateral and Multilateral Engagements: Vietnam collaborates with Japan,
India, and Australia to strengthen security without escalating military conflict.
4.​ Defensive Measures: Vietnam has strengthened its coast guard patrols and
maritime law enforcement to protect its EEZ from illegal incursions

(Possible solutions)

Vietnam believes that peace in the South China Sea can only be achieved through diplomatic
and legal means, grounded in international law. The following solutions align with
Vietnam’s stance:
 1.​ Strict Enforcement of UNCLOS and the PCA Ruling: The international
community, particularly the UNSC, must pressure China to abide by legal rulings
and halt militarization.
2.​ Finalization of the ASEAN Code of Conduct (COC): This agreement must be
legally binding and prevent the construction of military bases in disputed areas.
3.​ Demilitarization Agreements: A phased withdrawal of military assets from
artificial islands should be negotiated under UN supervision to restore stability.
4.​ Establishment of a Multilateral Monitoring Force: The UN, in collaboration
with ASEAN, should deploy an independent maritime monitoring force to
ensure compliance with international laws and prevent aggressive actions.
5.​ Sustainable Resource Management: ASEAN countries should implement a
joint fisheries and resource-sharing agreement to prevent overexploitation
and ensure economic stability for all claimants.

While Vietnam is committed to regional stability and cooperation, it remains steadfast

in defending its sovereignty and maritime rights. It is imperative that the UNSC and the
international community stand against unilateral militarization and promote diplomatic
solutions.
 Bibliography:
United Nations. “United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.” United Nations
Convention on the Law of the Sea, p. 21.
[Link]/depts/los/convention_agreements/texts/unclos/unclos_e.pdf.

Vietnam’s Territorial Waters and Islands - [Link].

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Bitzinger, Richard A. “China’s Militarisation of the South China Sea: Creating a Strategic
Strait?” RSIS Commentary, S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies, Sept. 2016,
[Link]/content/dam/ethz/special-interest/gess/cis/center-for-securities-studies
/resources/docs/RSIS%20-%20China's%20Militarisation%20of%20the%20South%20Chin
a%20Sea,%20Creating%20a%20Strategic%[Link].

Sample Prepared by Srinivas Padmanaban & Designed by Adith Balasubramaniam