The European Union’s Emerging Maritime Security Role in Combating Unconventional Organized Crime in the Indo-Pacific
摘要
Although the European Union (EU) is not a major player in the traditional security challenges affecting the Indo-Pacific region, it is well-positioned as a strategic partner to address unconventional maritime security threats. The “Enhanced EU Maritime Security Strategy for Evolving Maritime Threats” adopted in March 2023 specifies that the EU’s external maritime action should concentrate on addressing the increasing unconventional threats in the seas. Those predominantly affect coastal countries in the Indo-Pacific and exacerbate the social, economic and geopolitical tensions already present in the region. This chapter examines the extent to which the EU can be considered a significant trading actor in the Indo-Pacific region and a key partner in assisting countries in designing national strategies to address the growing connection between unconventional threats and maritime security. The chapter concludes that the EU should focus on utilizing its role as a mediator and strengthening its bilateral associations with partner countries and regional organizations in the Indo-Pacific seas. Considering the EU’s leadership in sustainable ocean governance, it is recommended that the EU strengthens coordination, cooperation and naval presence in the Indo-Pacific to effectively address unconventional maritime threats and promote stability and security in a region of significant future importance.