The Southeast Asian region has experienced numerous territorial disputes throughout history, though modern times have seen a decline in such conflicts. Exceptions include notable clashes over the South China Sea, Taiwan's status, Sabah, and Arunachal Pradesh. On the whole, countries in the region are striving to prevent these disputes from escalating through the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
Formed on August 8, 1967, by the Foreign Ministers of Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand, ASEAN aims to foster economic prosperity and maintain peace in the region. One of its core principles is the "settlement of differences or disputes by peaceful manner." Despite its regional influence, major countries like China and Japan are not members, which leads to ongoing tensions between ASEAN nations and non-members, such as the Philippines and China.
South China Sea and the Nine-Dash Line
Tensions in the South China Sea escalated after a summit in Washington DC involving leaders from Japan, the Philippines, and the United States, where China's aggressive actions were a central concern. China's land reclamation projects and operations near the Philippine coastlines have raised alarms, particularly regarding the exclusive economic zone (EEZ), which accounts for 7% of the Philippines’ $11.9 billion GDP.
Since November 2023, there has been an increase in physical encounters between Philippine and Chinese ships, with the trend continuing into 2024. China claims the majority of the South China Sea under its nine-dash line, based on "ancient times" and a belief that it is "rightfully" theirs. However, this claim was rejected by ASEAN in 2016, as it was deemed to infringe on disputed waters. Critics argue that China had not previously expressed exclusive control over these waters, strengthening the case against the nine-dash line.
Taiwan and the Philippines: Two Distinct Disputes
The disputes involving Taiwan and the Philippines with China differ significantly. Taiwan is regarded by China as a province rather than a separate state, stemming from the controversial split of 1949 following the Chinese Civil War. While Taiwan's Republic of China (ROC) government once aimed to reclaim mainland China, it shifted to self-governance in the early 1990s. President Tsai Ing-Wen firmly believes Taiwan is already independent, requiring only formal acknowledgment. However, much of the Taiwanese population seeks to avoid immediate independence despite supporting the consensus.
In contrast, the Philippines is a sovereign nation whose EEZ is being directly violated by China's aggressive operations. The Philippines argues these actions contravene maritime laws requiring stable and defined boundaries. Taiwan and the Philippines are on opposing sides regarding the nine-dash line; Taiwan supports it as it benefits from the claim, whereas the Philippines, Brunei, Indonesia, and Malaysia have their EEZs infringed upon.
Addressing Chinese Aggression and Seeking Resolutions
China’s aggressive behaviour in the South China Sea poses significant risks to all parties involved. President Xi Jinping envisions reunification with Taiwan by 2049, but negotiations are essential to establish compromises and reach agreements that serve the interests of all parties.
China's operations near the coastlines of South China Sea nations threaten peace and stability in the region. ASEAN members remain cautious of such actions within their EEZs. Preventing conflict is critical, and while involving global powers like the United States may complicate the fragile situation, comprehensive resolutions are necessary to ensure long-term stability and mutual benefit.