(Executive Summary) The National Bureau of Asian Research and Sasakawa USA have partnered on a new innovative platform for analyses and data on maritime security called the Maritime Awareness Project (MAP). The MAP portal combines exciting, interactive mapping technology with rigorous analyses from the world’s leading maritime experts to serve as the leading authoritative resource on maritime issues.

There are differing scales and scopes of maritime disputes throughout the world. Currently, maritime issues and competing claims in the East and South China Seas have become intractable features of the Asia-Pacific security landscape. Confrontations between claimants, both at sea and in the diplomatic arena, have escalated in recent years as historical narratives collide with modern geopolitics. Given this pressing reality, MAP begins its exploration of maritime security issues in the Asia-Pacific region, to be followed later by an expansion into other bodies of water throughout the world.

The purpose of the project is to set maritime developments in broader strategic perspective, allowing the audience to better grasp the full complexity of economic and security interests at sea. In doing so, MAP equips the media, policymakers, scholars, and the wider public with a comprehensive tool to discover the full complexities of the maritime domain.

The MAP website will be home to analytical papers from regional experts.  Most recently DKI APCSS’ Dr. Justin Nankivell wrote on “The Role and Use of International Law in the South China Sea Disputes.”  

Dr. Jeffrey Hornung, formerly of DKI APCSS, serves as the MAP project director and is a Fellow for Security and Foreign Affairs Programs at Sasakawa Peace Foundation USA.

For more information visit: http://maritimeawarenessproject.org

Related links:  

• Navigating Unsettled Waters: Introducing the Maritime Awareness Project (Youtube)
• Launch of the Maritime Awareness Project praised by former Seventh Fleet Commander (Seapower Magazine) –
• The Role and Use of International Law in the South China Sea Disputes