Die maritime Integration Ostasiens

Abstract One of the main characteristics of regional integration in East Asia is its predominantly maritime form. This article examines the sea-related aspects of regional integration: from the historic constitution of the region through sea traffic, the sustained significance of the "East Asian Mediterranean Sea" as basic structure of the region, the importance of harbours, shipyards and coastal economic zones, to transnational cooperations in fighting piracy. The high number of maritime border disputes and the increasing naval arms race are among the core obstacles to the further peaceful integration of the region.