Rising tensions in the South China Sea: Unbalanced laws

By: Daphne Polizzi - Le Monde

Tension has been high in the South China Sea after the death of 3 Philippian fishermen. The world powers are now against each other, with China playing the role of the underdog against the US and its allies. The UN conference has not even been in action for a whole day and already there are whispers of another cold war.

In many parts of the South China Sea, where geopolitical currents run deep and territorial claims are intertwined, long-standing conflicts continue to fester, putting people at risk across regional borders. At the heart of the problem is a complex web of historical grievances, economic interests, and strategic interests, and there are no easy solutions.
 
The conflict particularly affects China and several Southeast Asian countries and focuses on contested territories over islands, coral reefs, and marine life. China's wide-ranging claims contradict those of Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, and Brunei, which claim control over various parts of the region.
 
Tensions have risen in recent years as China asserts its influence through island-building activities, offshore deployments of maritime forces, and aggressive maritime activities. The action sparked a diplomatic outcry, boosted the military's image, and worried neighbouring countries and international observers.
 
 
The South China Sea is not only a strategic waterway but also an important artery of global trade, accounting for the majority of the world's maritime trade. The region is rich in natural resources, including fish stocks and potential oil and gas reserves, further promoting competition.
 
Attempts to resolve the conflict through multilateral dialogue are difficult as countries remain entrenched in their respective positions. The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has attempted to create a unified defence force, but this has been hampered by internal divisions and varying degrees of dependence on China.

The United States, a major player in the region, wants to apply an "Axis to Asia" strategy of strengthening military alliances and conducting freedom of navigation operations in the South China Sea to counter China's growing influence. This worsened the situation, exacerbating mistrust and creating rivalry between the great powers.
Despite international pressure to uphold the principles of international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), progress toward a peaceful solution remains difficult. China's refusal to recognize an international tribunal's ruling invalidating China's claims under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea highlights the difficulty of enforcing legal standards in disputed waters.
Between geopolitical acumen and diplomatic courage, the stakes are high.
 
Miscalculations or escalation of conflict could have serious implications not only for the countries directly involved but also for the broader regional security system.
In this volatile environment, it is essential to find ways to mitigate and find collective solutions. Dialogue, confidence-building measures and the implementation of international norms are critical to preventing the South China Sea from becoming a conflict zone. Only with concerted efforts and real political will can we hope to move the region towards a more stable and secure future.