Today the Spratlys and Paracels, Tomorrow…
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Description
This commentary examines China’s expanding assertiveness in the South China Sea, particularly its moves to create administrative zones over the Spratly and Paracel Islands, in the context of global distraction during the COVID-19 pandemic. The author argues that Beijing’s actions reflect a pattern of challenging the existing international order and pursuing unilateral territorial claims, often disregarding commitments such as the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea. The piece underscores the strategic importance of alliances, regional institutions such as ASEAN, and a concerted multinational response to counter China’s efforts to alter the status quo. It emphasizes that pushing back against such efforts requires integrated policy coordination, shared democratic values among partners, and sustained U.S. leadership in the Indo-Pacific.
Document Type
Article
Topic(s)
Strategic Competition, National Security, Defense Policy
Region(s)
Indo-Pacific/South China Sea, China, Southeast Asia
Publication Date
4-23-2020
Keywords
South China Sea, Spratly Islands, Paracel Islands, China territorial claims, freedom of navigation, ASEAN, U.S. alliances, Indo-Pacific strategy, regional security, international order, maritime disputes, China assertiveness
Recommended Citation
Przystup, James J., "Today the Spratlys and Paracels, Tomorrow…" (2020). Strategic Insights. 16.
https://digitalcommons.ndu.edu/strategic-insights/16