China’s Expansionism: A Call for Awareness in the West

By WPS News Diplomatic Corespondent

In recent years, the complexities of international geopolitical dynamics have heightened, especially concerning the actions taken by the People’s Republic of China (PRC) in the South China Sea. This strategic maritime region has become a focal point for both military and economic interests, not just for China but for multiple countries that hold legitimate claims to the waters and islands. As tensions rise, it is essential for the West, particularly the United States, to be informed about the implications of China’s territorial assertiveness, which is not merely a regional issue but a global concern for democracy and peace.

Military Expansion in the South China Sea

China’s military capabilities have expanded significantly in the South China Sea. The establishment of dual-use civilian-military bases allows for enhanced monitoring and projection of power across this vital maritime area. These installations support both civilian maritime operations and military readiness, creating a duality that complicates international responses. The Chinese government can disguise military activities under the guise of commercial operations, blurring the lines of legality and sovereignty. Such tactics have emboldened China to assert its claims more aggressively, positioning the country in direct conflict with the interests of surrounding nations and raising alarms in Washington.

Aggressive Tactics by the Chinese Coast Guard

In 2023, the Chinese Coast Guard’s aggressive tactics have escalated tensions significantly. They have frequently harassed Philippine vessels engaged in resupply missions to the contested Second Thomas Shoal, revealing a pattern of intimidation designed to deter other nations from exercising their rights in these waters. These confrontations not only underline the risks faced by regional allies, such as the Philippines but also send a troubling signal about China’s willingness to engage in coercion. This behavior is indicative of a broader strategy aimed at consolidating control over vast stretches of maritime territory that do not belong to China under international law.

Armed Islands: Fortification and Military Readiness

China has fortified several islands in the South China Sea, deploying advanced fighter jets, anti-ship missiles, and various military facilities. These militarized islands serve as a powerful deterrent against rival claims and reinforce China’s narrative of sovereignty over the disputed territories. The militarization of these islands also presents a direct threat to freedom of navigation and overflight, principles that are vital for international trade routes and regional stability. For the United States and its allies, the challenge posed by these fortified positions is not just about countering military threats but also about maintaining the international order and ensuring that sovereignty is respected.

Land Reclamation and Territorial Claims

Since 2014, China’s extensive land reclamation projects across the Spratly Islands have significantly altered the strategic landscape. By creating new land features, China enhances its physical presence and bolsters its claims to these islands, often disregarding the rights of other nations. This transformation of the maritime environment allows China to extend its territorial claims beyond internationally recognized boundaries, further complicating diplomatic resolutions. The implications of these actions extend globally, implicating trade routes and raising concerns among nations about China’s expanding influence.

Overlapping EEZ Claims

The PRC’s claim to vast portions of the South China Sea directly overlaps with the Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs) of other nations, including Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan, and Vietnam. This overlap intensifies geopolitical disputes and heightens the risk of military confrontation. The notion of EEZs is anchored in international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which China has ratified. Yet, the aggressive assertion of claims undermines the legal frameworks that govern maritime rights, calling into question the effectiveness of international agreements when confronted with national will.

The Broader Threat to Democracy and Global Stability

While the election of political figures like Donald Trump has raised concerns about the state of democracy in the United States, it is critical to recognize that challenges to democracy and global peace extend beyond domestic politics. The rise of authoritarianism, as exemplified by China’s actions in the South China Sea, presents a multifaceted threat that requires urgent attention. The disregard for international norms and the aggressive assertion of territorial claims by China signal a shift towards a more confrontational stance that could destabilize the region.

Moreover, the implications of China’s behavior resonate beyond the immediate competing claims. They present challenges to global governance, international trade, and the principles that underpin a stable global order. The failure to address these issues can lead to a deterioration of trust among nations, potentially triggering broader conflicts that threaten peace and prosperity.

Conclusion: Awareness and Action

As citizens of the West, particularly in the United States, it is crucial to remain informed about the developments in the South China Sea and to understand their broader implications. The actions of China in this maritime region are not isolated but part of a larger strategy that challenges existing international norms and threatens the principles of sovereignty and freedom.

Engagement and collective action, grounded in international law, will be essential for the global community to effectively address these challenges. By acknowledging these realities, we can better advocate for policies that promote stability and uphold democratic