Impact of Melting Arctic Routes on the ASEAN Blue Economy: Climate Change and Regional Security Challenges. (2025-2035)

Abstract

As a result of climate change, a new shipping route has been discovered, offering a more efficient transit between Europe and Asia. It is possible due to the melting of Arctic Sea ice. On the contrary, these new global trade routes are prone to improving the trade system, but the ASEAN nations will face a serious issue. The ASEAN nations are dependent upon the maritime points, for example, the South China Sea and the Strait of Malacca. Diminished maritime traffic could potentially impact port activity, transit income, and maritime activities. ASEAN’s blue economy is based on ocean resources for development, livelihoods, and other environmental preservation, which is in jeopardy due to these changes. An ASEAN nation’s important sector for economic growth is based on maritime tourism and fisheries. It could be negatively impacted by a decrease in vessel traffic and an increase in environmental degradation due to the climatic changes in the Arctic region. As sea level rises as a result of polar ice melting, coastal regions are more prone to floods and ecosystem destruction. Moreover, the security challenges posed by China and Russia, which are increasing their military and geopolitical struggle, are creating regional security challenges as well; they are challenging the maritime sovereignty of ASEAN. It could undermine the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). A multi-faceted response, strategic development of ASEAN, active engagement in the global climate, a balanced approach to economic development, and environmentally friendly and sustainable opportunities with the geopolitical vision can help ASEAN to protect its maritime future in a world.