Revista Sextante

The Relationship Between Defense Policy, Geopolitical Stability, and International Maritime Security

Naledi P. Mokoena

Department of International Security and Maritime Policy, Cape Meridian Institute for Strategic Studies, Cape Town, South Africa

Keywords: defence policy, geopolitical stability, maritime security, sea power, naval diplomacy

Abstract

The oceans carry most of the world's trade, connect distant economies, and form the arena in which major powers compete and cooperate. This article examines the relationship among defence policy, geopolitical stability, and international maritime security. It argues that these three elements are mutually dependent. Defence policy shapes how states build and employ naval and maritime forces, geopolitical conditions determine whether those forces are used to compete or to cooperate, and the state of maritime security, in turn, influences the stability of the wider international system. Drawing on classical sea power theory, international relations scholarship, and contemporary maritime security studies, the analysis reviews theoretical perspectives, the formulation of maritime strategy, maritime flashpoints, the role of chokepoints and trade routes, alliances and naval diplomacy, legal and institutional frameworks, and non traditional threats. The study finds that stability is strengthened when defence policies are transparent, proportionate, and anchored in international law, and when states cooperate to protect shared sea lanes, but that mutual suspicion, security dilemmas, and unresolved disputes can turn maritime space into a source of tension. The article concludes with policy recommendations aimed at balancing deterrence with reassurance and at sustaining cooperative maritime governance.