Peter Dutton stands as a distinguished figure in the fields of international law and China studies. Currently a Senior Research Scholar in Law and Senior Fellow at the Paul Tsai China Center at Yale Law School, Dutton brings a wealth of experience from academia and decades of service with the U.S. Navy. His career reflects a deep engagement with critical issues at the intersection of law, geopolitics, and international relations, particularly concerning China and maritime security.
Prior to his role at Yale, Dutton was a Professor of International Law at the Stockton Center for International Law, based at the U.S. Naval War College. His tenure at the War College was extensive and impactful, including serving as the interim dean of the Center for Naval Warfare Studies and the director of the China Maritime Studies Institute. He also held a professorship in joint military operations, demonstrating his broad expertise across naval and military strategy.
Dutton’s career is underpinned by over 40 years of service to the U.S. Navy, both in active duty and civilian roles. Beginning as a naval flight officer, he operated in diverse theaters, including the Caribbean, Pacific, and Europe. Transitioning to a Judge Advocate, he deployed with Carrier Group Six aboard the USS John F. Kennedy to the Persian Gulf during Operation Southern Watch. His expertise led him to advise Pacific Fleet Commanders, Secretaries of Defense, and Chairmen of the Joint Chiefs of Staff on Asia-Pacific policies. Furthermore, he has provided expert testimony to both the Senate and the House of Representatives on matters related to China, underscoring his recognized authority in the field.
His research is notably interdisciplinary, merging international law with China studies and geopolitical strategy. A significant portion of his scholarly work focuses on the international law of the sea and air, with a particular emphasis on the strategic dynamics of the East and South China Seas. He also delves into broader geopolitical strategy, Chinese perspectives on sovereignty and international law, the legal status of Taiwan, and the strategic implications of China’s maritime expansion. These research interests position him at the forefront of contemporary debates surrounding international law and China’s growing global influence.
In addition to his primary affiliations, Peter Dutton is a non-resident affiliate in research at Harvard University Fairbank Center for China Studies and a non-resident affiliated scholar at the US-Asia Law Institute at New York University School of Law. His academic credentials include a Ph.D. in War Studies from King’s College London, a J.D. from the College of William & Mary, an M.A. from the U.S. Naval War College, and a B.S. from Boston University. This robust educational background complements his practical experience and scholarly pursuits, establishing Peter Dutton as a leading voice in understanding the complex legal and strategic challenges of the 21st century, particularly in the context of China’s rise.
