Top 7 Most Insightful Social Commentary Essays on Hoang Sa and Truong Sa as Part of Vietnam

Currently, the role of seas and islands is critical to our national economy and security. However, the sovereignty over these areas faces numerous challenges and disputes, particularly regarding the protection of our territorial waters. We must firmly believe in the historical truth that Hoang Sa and Truong Sa belong to Vietnam. We cannot tolerate illegal actions or violations of our territorial boundaries. Protecting our sovereignty over these territories is a vital issue that needs to be addressed promptly and effectively.

The sovereignty over seas and islands is becoming a significant challenge for many nations, including Vietnam, especially as countries vie for valuable natural resources in these waters. Disputes over maritime sovereignty not only destabilize regional security but also disrupt international economic and trade relations. Furthermore, failure to resolve these disputes could lead to armed conflicts, endangering millions of lives. To resolve the issue of maritime sovereignty, countries in the region must respect international principles of maritime law and territorial sovereignty.

For effective protection of maritime sovereignty, in addition to adhering to international maritime law, Vietnam and other nations in the region should enhance cooperation, communication, and dialogue to resolve sovereignty disputes. This will help prevent armed conflicts and ensure regional security, stability, and development. At the same time, there should be efficient mechanisms and procedures for fairly resolving disputes in a just manner.

Protecting maritime sovereignty is also a top priority for our country. Therefore, active involvement from international partners, particularly influential nations with significant economic resources, is crucial to helping regional countries resolve sovereignty disputes. To achieve this, our people must actively promote and assert our maritime sovereignty.

Finally, to defend our sovereignty over the seas and islands, every citizen must enhance their military capabilities, especially in naval and maritime security. Strengthening our military capacity will allow Vietnam to effectively address security challenges from other countries in the region and maintain stability on our territorial waters.

Islands and seas refer to the body of water that is part of a nation's territory, surrounded by surface waters. These areas play a crucial role in the lives of both humans and all living organisms on Earth. The importance of seas and islands cannot be overstated. Firstly, they are valuable resources for humanity, offering food sources, oil, minerals, and marine life. Oceans also provide income through activities like fishing, tourism, and the transportation of goods.

Additionally, these seas and islands are vital for international trade. A significant portion of global goods is transported via sea routes, and key maritime shipping lanes pass through these areas. Thirdly, islands and seas play an essential role in environmental protection. They are home to various species of animals, plants, and microorganisms, providing oxygen to sustain life on Earth. However, seas and islands face challenges such as environmental pollution, climate change, overfishing, and infrastructure development. Therefore, safeguarding these areas and ensuring the sustainable use of marine resources is crucial for economic growth and environmental conservation for both humans and other living creatures.

Protecting maritime sovereignty is a key issue for every nation, especially those with extensive coastlines, like Vietnam. Safeguarding our maritime sovereignty means ensuring national security and long-term development for the Socialist Republic of Vietnam.

Currently, Vietnam faces territorial disputes over Hoang Sa and Truong Sa. To protect our maritime sovereignty, we need to enhance patrol and monitoring activities at sea. This includes overseeing both fishing and commercial vessels, especially those from foreign nations.

The Vietnamese government must develop strategic plans to safeguard its vital maritime regions, while cooperating with other nations to prevent illegal activities and resolve territorial disputes. Moreover, investment in technology and infrastructure is necessary to improve surveillance and control at sea. Technologies such as satellite positioning systems, detection and tracking devices, environmental monitoring tools, and communication technologies will allow our forces and relevant authorities to gather real-time information and respond quickly to unlawful actions. Additionally, policies should be put in place to encourage fishermen and economic organizations to contribute to safeguarding our maritime sovereignty.

According to scholars, the sovereignty of the two island groups, Hoang Sa and Truong Sa, has belonged to Vietnam since the 17th century. Since then, Vietnam's ownership and exercise of sovereignty over these islands have been clear, consistently reflected in historical records, documents, and real-world actions that align with international law principles.

Historically, the book "Phu Bien Tap Luc" compiled by scholar Le Quy Don in 1776 clearly states that the islands of Dai Truong Sa (i.e., Hoang Sa and Truong Sa) were part of Quang Nghia Prefecture. Similarly, the 1821 encyclopedic work “Lich Trieu Hien Chuong Loai Chi” by Phan Huy Chu provides detailed descriptions of Hoang Sa, from its geographical features to the organization of the Hoang Sa team. In the 1848 historical record "Dai Nam Thuc Luc Chinh Bien" compiled by the Nguyen Dynasty's National History Institute, the events of emperors Gia Long, Minh Mang, and Thieu Tri asserting control over the Hoang Sa Islands, building temples, erecting steles, planting trees, and mapping the islands were documented. The “Dai Nam Nhat Thong Chi,” an official geographical record of Vietnam from 1865-1910, also identifies the Hoang Sa islands as part of Quang Ngai Province.

On ancient maps, the “Toan Tap Thien Nam Tu Chi Lo Do Thu” (1630-1653) referred to the two island groups as Bai Cat Vang and included them in the territory of Binh Son District, Quang Nghia Prefecture. The “Giap Ngo Binh Nam Do” (1774) also depicted Bai Cat Vang as a part of Vietnam’s territory. The “Dai Nam Nhat Thong Toan Do” (1838) map clearly labeled both “Hoang Sa” and “Vạn Lý Truong Sa” as part of Vietnamese land. Philippe Vandermaelen’s 1827 world atlas published in Brussels provides robust international legal evidence, further strengthening the claim that Hoang Sa and Truong Sa are part of Vietnam.

Regarding the exercise of sovereignty from the 17th to the 19th century, Vietnamese feudal states established the Hoang Sa team, later joined by the Bac Hai team, to assert and manage the Hoang Sa and Truong Sa islands. During French colonial rule, the colonial government took steps to protect and administer these islands according to contemporary legal procedures. From 1954 to 1975, the Republic of Vietnam (South Vietnam) carried out actions to defend, exploit, and manage Hoang Sa and Truong Sa. After 1975, the Socialist Republic of Vietnam continued to assert and protect its sovereignty over these islands. Notably, in 1982, Vietnam established the Hoang Sa and Truong Sa districts, with Hoang Sa now part of Da Nang City and Truong Sa part of Khanh Hoa Province.

Foreign documents also affirm that Hoang Sa and Truong Sa belong to Vietnam. Authors such as Le Poivre (1740), J. Chaigneau (1816-1819), Taberd (1833), and Gutzlagip (1840) all confirmed Hoang Sa as part of Vietnam. Even Chinese authors have written about Hoang Sa and Truong Sa being under Vietnam’s sovereignty. For example, the monk Thich Dai San in his 1696 work “Hai Ngoai Ky Su” confirmed that the Nguyen Lords sent ships annually to collect products from sunken vessels in the Van Ly Truong Sa area. International conferences, such as the Cairo Conference (1943), Potsdam Conference (1945), San Francisco Peace Conference (1951), Geneva Conference (1954), and the Paris Agreement (1973), all upheld Vietnam’s sovereignty over Hoang Sa and Truong Sa.

Thus, Vietnam has ample historical and legal evidence to demonstrate its sovereignty over Hoang Sa and Truong Sa.

Driven by expansionist motives, China has persistently used various tactics to seize control over the islands and reefs in the South China Sea, with Hoang Sa and Truong Sa as primary targets. For example, in 1956, China sent troops to occupy the eastern group of the Hoang Sa Islands. In 1974, China used air and naval forces to capture the western part of Hoang Sa. In 1988, China seized reefs in the Truong Sa archipelago, including Chữ Thập, Châu Viên, Gaven, Tư Nghĩa, Gạc Ma, and Su Bi. In 1995, China occupied the Vanh Khan Reef. More recently, in 2012, China announced the establishment of a so-called "Sansha City" to “administer” the Paracel (Hoang Sa), Spratly (Truong Sa), and Macclesfield Bank areas. In 2017, China presented a new “Four Sha” claim, demanding sovereignty over four island groups, including the aforementioned and the Pratas Islands (administered by Taiwan), along with rights to the surrounding exclusive economic zones. In April 2020, China issued a decision to establish the so-called “Xisha District” and “Nansha District” under “Sansha City” to administer the Hoang Sa and Truong Sa Islands of Vietnam. Additionally, China provided coordinates for these islands and features, many of which are located deep within Vietnam’s exclusive economic zone and in areas as close as 60 nautical miles from Vietnam’s coast.

China's actions are baseless, lacking historical or legal justification. These actions reflect a blatant attempt to seize control of the South China Sea, as evidenced by their “Nine-Dash Line.” China's actions are a direct violation of Vietnam's sovereignty and international law. We firmly oppose these aggressive moves, as China has no sovereignty over Hoang Sa and Truong Sa.

Hoang Sa and Truong Sa are integral and inseparable parts of Vietnam. Therefore, the Party, people, and military of Vietnam must firmly grasp the historical and legal foundations asserting Vietnam’s sovereignty over these islands. We must unite and strengthen our collective efforts, relying on the “unity of the people” to persistently and resolutely defend the sovereignty of Hoang Sa and Truong Sa. Furthermore, we must ensure that the international community, including the people of China, understands the truth, and elevate the issue of Vietnam’s Hoang Sa and Truong Sa to international forums, such as the United Nations. As our ancestors once said, “Nam Quoc Son Ha Nam De Cu/ Tiet Nhien Dinh Phan Tai Thien Thu/ Như Hà Nghịch Lỗ Lai Xâm Phạm/ Nhữ Đẳng Hành Khan Thủ Bại Hư.”

"If the motherland is stormy from the sea, A part of the blood and flesh is in Hoang Sa. A thousand years ago, I followed my father to the sea, My mother went to the forest, forever longing for Truong Sa. The land of the motherland trembles with the shadow of invaders, While the children lie awake at the foot of the Truong Son mountains. The sea of the motherland has never been calm, The sea laboring like a mother’s worn-out clothes."

Each time I read this poem by poet Nguyen Viet Chien, I am stirred by the sea, by Hoang Sa – Truong Sa. I imagine the proud figures of soldiers on distant islands, standing firm amidst the vast ocean, guarding our homeland’s peace and sleep.

Born in a time of peace, I have never experienced war or hunger. I have only learned of our proud history through textbooks and the media. From these pages, I grew up with a deep sense of gratitude for our ancestors. If not for the generation of heroes who fell in countless national wars, I would not be here today. Though war has passed, and our country is at peace, the distant sea still carries the risk of invasion by hostile forces. Thus, the responsibility of the youth, and every citizen, remains paramount.

And there, hundreds of nautical miles away, the brave soldiers of the islands, passionate patriots with hearts full of love for the country, sacrifice and serve, facing the fierce waves day and night. They are the noble symbol of our nation today:

How dear are these people, moving forward

Two arms like wings soaring

Chests braving fierce storms

Feet trudging through the mud, unfazed by the snails!

Our country’s coastline stretches over 3,260 km from Mong Cai to Ca Mau Cape. Extending eastward, we have over 3,000 islands, large and small. Since the days when the Ly Son warriors drew the map, we’ve had Hoang Sa, Truong Sa with numerous islands, both visible and submerged. The sea, like a mother’s embrace, provides us with abundant marine resources and beautiful landscapes. The sea, full of love, waves on the shore day and night. Thinking of this, I remember my grandfather, who once told me, with a trembling, hoarse voice, the memories he had of the 1988 Gac Ma battle. It was a naval battle where our ancestors used all their strength to fight the treacherous Chinese forces. There, the soldiers offered their youth for the independence and sovereignty of the nation. They sacrificed, yet they held our national flag tightly, fighting with undivided resolve. Every year, ships carry teams to Truong Sa. When passing Gac Ma, the people of Vietnam do not forget to lay wreaths in memory of those who gave their lives for the country. They offered their 20s for the nation, and the whole country will forever remember their sacrifices. My grandfather closed his eyes, slowly opening them again with a wistful gaze towards the distance, and in that distant look, I saw an unspoken love for the Sea and Islands of our homeland.

Now, in peacetime, hundreds of thousands of soldiers have left their personal lives, bidding farewell to rural areas and bustling cities, to come to the islands, ensuring peaceful sleep for the people. Despite the shortages and loneliness, these soldiers remain on the islands, guarding the sacred sea and sky that many martyrs once died for at such a young age. Although war has ended, the plots to seize territory by neighboring countries still smolder. The sea remains turbulent, with waves that have not subsided.

These young soldiers, undeterred by hardship, continue to fight day and night. They stand ready, holding weapons, facing danger with courage and strength, standing firm in the vast ocean. I also recall the writer Nguyen Thanh Long, who introduced readers to the image of the young meteorologist working on Yen Son mountain, who, despite many hardships, continued working, contributing to the nation’s production and defense efforts. This shows that despite the obstacles, the youth of today, like those brave soldiers on the islands, continue to train, honing their will and courage to protect our homeland. This is the timeless beauty of the Vietnamese people, a nation that has stood tall for four thousand years:

Firmly standing for four thousand years

With a sword on the back and a soft brush in hand.

In pure thoughts, the shores shine bright

Living boldly, with love that knows no bounds.

(Huy Can)

Though I am filled with admiration and gratitude, it still feels insufficient. I long to wear the uniform of the soldiers on the distant islands, marching through those remote seas. Yes, when the country calls, we must be willing to sacrifice.

The current situation regarding the sea and islands of Vietnam is becoming increasingly complex, posing a direct threat to the nation's territorial sovereignty. Given the escalating tensions in the South China Sea, the question "What should the youth do to protect the motherland?" has garnered significant attention among young people, especially when discussing the recent developments in the South China Sea.

The sea and islands of Vietnam, including the Hoang Sa and Truong Sa archipelagos, undeniably belong to the Vietnamese people. This has been affirmed through historical records and scientific documentation. Published scientific and legal materials clearly demonstrate Vietnam's continuous exploration, occupation, and enforcement of sovereignty over these territories throughout history. However, in recent years, China has carried out numerous actions violating Vietnam's territorial integrity: capturing Vietnamese fishermen, attacking Vietnamese vessels in Vietnamese waters, and arbitrarily establishing the Sansha City on the Hoang Sa archipelago...

These actions by China represent serious infringements on Vietnam's sovereignty over the Hoang Sa and Truong Sa islands; they also violate Vietnam's rights to exclusive economic zones and jurisdiction over its maritime territories. Additionally, they breach the October 2011 agreement between Vietnam and China on maritime dispute resolution, and contradict the spirit of the South China Sea Code of Conduct and the 10-year Anniversary Declaration, further complicating the situation in the region.

To safeguard national sovereignty, young people and students must thoroughly understand the sacred meaning of our territorial rights and the immense value of sovereignty that our ancestors fought and died to protect. It is crucial to study Vietnamese history, especially the historical and geographical facts concerning Hoang Sa and Truong Sa... and understand the consistent foreign policy of the Party and State regarding the South China Sea, as well as the legal framework of maritime zones based on the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.

The youth should actively participate in legitimate forums in the media and online platforms, asserting Vietnam's sovereignty over its maritime territories. At the same time, they must vocally condemn and take action against any infringements on Vietnam's sea and island sovereignty.

Youth must also provide strong support to the soldiers guarding the islands, through tangible actions such as sending letters to the soldiers to share their encouragement and help them stay motivated in their duty to protect our seas and islands.

Furthermore, it is vital to continuously develop the qualities of the new Vietnamese generation, contributing to building a prosperous nation with patriotic ideals and unity. This will enable us to unite our strength and defend our sovereignty over the sea and islands. We must also prepare ourselves to actively engage in efforts to preserve the security of our homeland’s seas and islands, contributing with whatever means we can.

The sea and islands of Vietnam are an inseparable part of our sacred territory, inherited from our ancestors. It is the duty of the youth to protect this territory with all our might, as President Ho Chi Minh once stated: "The Hung Kings laid the foundation for the nation, and we, their descendants, must preserve it."

The sea and islands of our homeland are inseparable from the heart and soul of every Vietnamese citizen. The seas of Vietnam, and the broader South China Sea, have become an integral part of our national identity. For generations, the Vietnamese people have lived in harmony with the sea, taking to the waters on boats to assert sovereignty and protect the nation’s borders. The issue of sovereignty over the sea and islands is one of the highest priorities for our country, as it represents not just territorial integrity but also the very future and livelihood of our people.

Vietnam’s maritime territories consist of both the sea itself and a system of islands and archipelagos. Our maritime zone spans over 1 million square kilometers, divided into five main areas: internal waters, territorial sea, contiguous zone, exclusive economic zone, and continental shelf. Our coastline stretches 3,260 km, touching 28 provinces and cities, and borders the seas of eight neighboring countries: China, Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines, Brunei, Indonesia, Cambodia, and Singapore. Within our waters lie over 4,000 islands, with the largest being Phu Quoc (Kien Giang), along with the Hoang Sa (Da Nang) and Truong Sa (Khanh Hoa) archipelagos, and 12 island districts across nine provinces. Historically, Vietnam has established and maintained its sovereignty over these islands, which have been vital to national defense and as stepping stones for maritime expansion. Affirming our sovereignty over these seas is essential to asserting our territorial rights over surrounding waters and the continental shelf. The issue of maritime sovereignty has become increasingly complex due to illegal encroachments by other nations on our seas and islands. However, thousands of historical records attest to Vietnam’s rightful ownership and continuous governance over these territories since they were first discovered. We have exercised our sovereignty peacefully, consistently, and in accordance with international law.

Maritime sovereignty is a hotly contested issue because the South China Sea is seen as a strategic crossroads for international shipping and contains valuable resources. Neighboring countries have long been involved in disputes over the region, exploiting and encroaching upon Vietnam's maritime domain. In the face of these challenges, Vietnam continues to uphold its internationally recognized sovereignty and resolve disputes through peaceful, legal means. For the disputed areas, particularly the Hoang Sa and Truong Sa archipelagos, Vietnam consistently asserts its unquestionable rights over its exclusive economic zone and continental shelf in the South China Sea. In recent years, tensions have affected both national security and the lives of people living in these maritime areas. Our government remains committed to resolving disputes peacefully and diplomatically, based on legal frameworks and international agreements. Vietnam continues to advocate for the protection of its territorial integrity, equipping every citizen with knowledge about the sacredness of our maritime sovereignty. At the same time, we seek international support to reaffirm our claims in the South China Sea, asserting to the world that Hoang Sa and Truong Sa belong to Vietnam.

Today's generation enjoys peace thanks to the sacrifices made by those who defended our homeland, including our cherished seas and islands. Therefore, it is our duty to study, work, and improve ourselves to contribute to the ongoing effort to safeguard national sovereignty. We must equip ourselves with knowledge about maritime sovereignty, promote Vietnam's claims on the international stage, and condemn any actions that threaten our territorial integrity.

The seas and islands of Vietnam are an integral part of our heritage. As captured in the song ‘Homeland Seas and Islands,’ the sea and the sky are our nation’s priceless treasures. Our ancestors fought to establish and protect our territories, and now, it is our duty to preserve and defend our sovereignty over the seas and islands.

Vietnam, a coastal country on the western edge of the South China Sea, occupies a significant geopolitical and economic position, which is unique among nations. With over 3,260 kilometers of coastline stretching from north to south, it ranks 27th globally among 157 coastal nations, islands, and territories. Out of 63 provinces in Vietnam, 28 are coastal, and nearly half of the population lives in these coastal areas. For thousands of years, the seas and islands have been essential to the growth and development of the Vietnamese people and culture. The expansive maritime space has not only supported generations of people but also shaped the cultural foundations of Vietnam and preserved its deep-rooted cultural heritage.

The role of the sea and islands in Vietnam's historical development cannot be overstated. Throughout Vietnam's history, these areas have been central in providing a sustainable living environment, forming the maritime culture, establishing trade relations with neighboring countries, and asserting the nation's sovereignty and maritime security. The seas and islands are home to many fishermen, who brave the elements and battle storms. They also serve as significant tourist destinations, with cities like Da Nang, Nha Trang, and Vung Tau attracting travelers from around the world. With its rich marine ecosystem, Vietnam proudly stands as a sought-after destination for international visitors.

However, these valuable resources face significant threats today. One major concern is marine pollution. Studies show that 70% of oceanic waste comes from land-based sources, such as factories, residential areas, hospitals, and agriculture. This untreated waste is discharged into rivers, which flow into the sea, carrying harmful substances like plastics, chemicals, heavy metals, and even radioactive materials. Another issue is the lack of environmental awareness among some tourists, who carelessly throw trash and plastic bottles into the sea, disregarding its fragile ecosystem. Even more concerning is the loss of security and sovereignty over our islands, with foreign nations threatening our territorial waters. Our naval forces stationed on distant islands work tirelessly day and night to protect our independence and ensure the nation’s peace.

To safeguard our seas and islands, I believe every student should educate themselves about maritime issues, stay updated on environmental news, and understand the sovereignty concerns in Hoang Sa and Truong Sa. We must actively engage in national defense education, participate in youth movements such as the Green Summer Campaign, and volunteer in remote regions and islands. Schools should organize contests and activities to help students develop a deeper appreciation for our homeland and instill love for our nation.

Each individual plays a part in the nation’s defense. Patriotism is not something forced upon us but rather a natural feeling that grows as we mature. As poet Do Trung Quan wrote:

“As a child, I went to school each day

Loving my homeland through every page of my books”