By José Carlos Palma*
As the world strides into 2024, the geopolitical landscape is set to undergo a transformative shift with the oceans taking on increased geostrategic prominence. The year ahead promises to be marked by a deepening realization of the oceans’ significance as a vital ecosystem, economic powerhouse, and a crucial factor in global security.
The Oceanic Epicenter: A Hub of Life and Resources
The oceans, covering about 71% of Earth’s surface, have long been acknowledged as the cradle of life. In 2024, this recognition is set to deepen as a staggering 94% of all life on the planet calls the oceans home. From microscopic organisms to majestic whales, the biodiversity within the oceanic realm is unparalleled.
Beyond its ecological importance, the oceans are emerging as a critical economic and national security resource. Approximately 90% of the world’s goods are transported via maritime routes, forming the backbone of global trade. This reliance on shipping makes secure and open maritime corridors imperative for the stability of the world economy.
Navigating Geopolitical Risks in Maritime Transit Corridors
However, the increasing geostrategic prominence of oceans also comes with its share of challenges. Many of the planet’s busiest maritime transit corridors face the looming threat of geopolitical disruptions. The strategic chokepoints, such as the Strait of Hormuz, Malacca Strait, and the Suez Canal, through which a significant portion of global trade flows, are susceptible to conflicts and tensions involving countries like Iran, Indonesia, Egypt, and others.
In 2024, the global community will be forced to grapple with the delicate balance between safeguarding the vital arteries of global trade and navigating the geopolitical minefields that threaten these maritime transit corridors. Policymakers, businesses, and international organizations will need to collaborate to ensure the uninterrupted flow of goods while addressing geopolitical risks involving nations in these regions.
The Deep Blue Economy: Deep-Sea Mining and Critical Minerals
A seismic shift in the global economy is underway with the rise of deep-sea mining, a practice projected to contribute at least one-third of the supply of critical minerals essential for the ongoing energy transition. These minerals, including cobalt, nickel, and rare earth elements, are integral components of renewable energy technologies, electric vehicles, and various electronic devices.
As demand for these critical minerals skyrockets, nations and corporations are turning their gaze towards the vast, unexplored depths of the ocean floor. However, the pursuit of these resources is not without controversy. Environmental concerns, ethical considerations, and potential geopolitical conflicts over mining rights are surfacing as the world delves into this uncharted economic frontier, involving countries like China, the United States, and seabed mining hotspots.
Corporate Strategies in the Face of Oceanic Geopolitics
In the corporate realm, the year 2024 will witness a paradigm shift in supply chain and sustainability strategies. Companies reliant on global trade routes will need to factor in the geopolitical risks associated with maritime transit corridors, involving nations like those surrounding the South China Sea, the Persian Gulf, and the Arctic.
Moreover, the burgeoning field of deep-sea mining will present both opportunities and challenges for corporations. Striking a delicate balance between economic interests and environmental stewardship will be imperative. Companies at the forefront of technological innovation and sustainability practices will find themselves better positioned to navigate the complex web of ocean geopolitics, involving countries with significant maritime interests.
Conclusion: Navigating the Oceanic Future
In 2024, the oceans cease to be mere expanses of water; they become the epicenter of global dynamics. The intertwining of ecological, economic, and geopolitical factors underscores the need for a holistic approach to ocean management. As nations, businesses, and individuals navigate the oceanic future, careful consideration of the interplay between environmental sustainability, economic interests, and geopolitical realities involving diverse nations will be crucial for steering a course towards a prosperous and secure world.
* Expert in international relations, such as foreign policy, international trade, domestic security, international security, developing nations, domestic security, intelligence, IT Consultant, world history, political consultant, and military analysis.
The International Studies of Strategic and Geopolitics (ISSG) is a not-for-profit policy research organization dedicated to studying the world’s greatest challenges.