A Decade of Disturbance: China's Destabilizing Actions in the West Philippine Sea

 

Regional Destabilization

China's activities in the West Philippine Sea over the past few years have become a classic case of unchecked ambition undermining regional stability and the international legal order. Think 1939. Their expansive claims, embodied in the bogus "nine-dash line," encompass a staggering 80% of the resource-rich sea, directly conflicting with the established maritime entitlements of Southeast Asian nations, like Indonesia, the Philippines, and Vietnam.

China's strategy unfolds in two key phases. First, they've aggressively asserted their claims through land reclamation projects. By dredging sand and unilaterally transforming disputed reefs into artificial islands, China has established a physical presence in strategically valuable locations. This not only strengthens their claims but also provides a platform for further militarization.

The second phase involves a calculated blend of military force and paramilitary intimidation. China has deployed advanced weaponry on these artificial islands, transforming them into fortified outposts. Their coast guard, often acting with aggressive maneuvering and dangerous tactics, harasses and detains fishing vessels from neighboring countries, effectively pushing them out of their traditional fishing grounds. Additionally, China's use of maritime militias, vessels staffed by civilians but operating under government direction, adds a layer of ambiguity and allows them to avoid direct military confrontation. Tensions involving China and the Philippines have escalated recently. On March 5, 2024, a Philippines ship attempting to resupply the BRP Sierra Madre in the Ayungin Shoal was attacked with water cannon by the Chinese Coastguard. The incident injured four Filipino sailors, including a high-ranking official.

United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea

The 2016 arbitral ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) decisively rejected China's expansive claims. However, China dismissed the ruling as a politically motivated sham, further eroding trust in international legal mechanisms. Their actions not only violate the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), the cornerstone of international maritime law, but also threaten the very foundation of a rules-based international order.

The consequences of China's actions are far-reaching. Three crucial repercussions are:

1. Environmental concerns are on top of geopolitical tensions that China's actions create. Recent studies found widespread destruction of natural maritime habitat and pollution. The situation is complex, but the potential for lasting damage to the maritime environment is a growing concern.
2. The disruption of traditional fishing grounds not only impacts the livelihoods of millions in Southeast Asia but also threatens regional food security. China's use of coast guard vessels and maritime militia to restrict access by other countries' fishing fleets can lead to overfishing by Chinese vessels. This disrupts the delicate balance of fish stocks in the region.
3. Freedom of navigation, essential for global trade, is increasingly under threat. The West Philippine Sea is a vital shipping lane for a significant portion of global trade. Any major disruption in this area, caused by restricted access, could significantly impact global supply chains.

China's aggressive actions raise concerns about potential military confrontations, jeopardizing the fragile peace in the region.

International Response

The international community must respond with a united front. Freedom of navigation operations by the United States and other countries are crucial in demonstrating the illegality of China's claims and upholding the principle of free passage. Additionally, unwavering diplomatic support for Southeast Asian nations is essential. Strengthening their maritime capabilities and fostering regional cooperation can help them counter China's bullying tactics.

Ultimately, the global community must stand firm against China's expansionist agenda. Appeasement is not an option. Again, think 1939. By upholding international law, supporting Southeast Asian nations, and promoting peaceful resolution mechanisms, the world can prevent the West Philippine Sea from becoming a flashpoint for conflict. The future of a stable and prosperous region hinges on holding China accountable for its destabilizing actions.