In a significant contribution to the discourse on global ocean governance, Wei Li, a scholar from the Law School at Ocean University of China, has published a study in the journal ‘Marine Development’ (translated from Chinese as ‘Marine Development’). The research, titled “Theoretical paradigm reconstruction in global ocean governance amid technological change: a genealogical study,” delves into the evolving landscape of ocean governance theories in the face of rapid technological advancements.
Li’s study argues that traditional Western theoretical frameworks—realism, liberalism, and constructivism—are grappling with a structural crisis when it comes to addressing systemic risks brought about by disruptive technologies. This crisis, according to Li, stems from inherent epistemological and normative limitations within these frameworks. “The Western theoretical spectrum exhibits a structural crisis of explanation when confronting systemic risks catalyzed by disruptive technologies,” Li states, highlighting the need for new approaches.
The study introduces the Chinese proposal of a “Maritime Community with a Shared Future” as a potential paradigm shift. This concept, Li argues, integrates insights from existing Western theories into a new philosophical foundation, aiming to transcend current dilemmas. The core principles of this framework include extensive consultation, joint contribution, and shared benefits, which Li posits as systematic paradigmatic innovations.
For maritime professionals, the implications of this research are profound. The study outlines three practical pathways where this new framework could be applied: global legislation, regional cooperation, and technology governance. These pathways not only validate the applicability and effectiveness of the framework but also highlight the role of Chinese mid-range theories as important cognitive tools for navigating the complexities of ocean governance.
The commercial impacts of this research are multifaceted. For instance, the emphasis on regional cooperation could open up new avenues for collaborative projects in marine conservation, sustainable fishing, and maritime security. The focus on technology governance could drive innovation in maritime technologies, ensuring that advancements are aligned with sustainable and equitable practices. Moreover, the concept of a Maritime Community with a Shared Future could foster a more collaborative international environment, benefiting industries that rely on stable and predictable maritime conditions.
Li’s research provides a fresh perspective on global ocean governance, offering a new benchmark for evaluating state conduct and steering global ocean institutions toward a more just and sustainable future. As the maritime industry continues to evolve, the insights from this study could prove invaluable in shaping policies and practices that balance technological advancements with environmental and social responsibilities.
In the words of Li, the genealogical value of a Maritime Community with a Shared Future lies in providing a new benchmark for evaluating state conduct and steering global ocean institutions toward a more just and sustainable future. This research, published in ‘Marine Development’, offers a compelling case for the integration of diverse theoretical frameworks in addressing the complex challenges of ocean governance in the 21st century.