In this excerpt from the Watch List 2024 – Spring Update, Crisis Group looks at how the EU can support regional diplomacy to mitigate tensions in the South China Sea. As tensions continue to rise in the region, it is crucial for international actors to work together to find peaceful solutions to the maritime disputes.
Under Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the relationship between Manila and Beijing has soured. Manila is now turning back to the United States for support in the South China Sea disputes. The Philippines seeks to strengthen its alliances in order to stand up against China's aggressive actions in the region.
The U.S. cannot afford to be blindsided by any future incidents and dangers posed by China's maritime ambitions in the Indo-Pacific region. The United States recognizes the importance of maintaining stability in the South China Sea and is committed to supporting its allies in the region.
Europe has joined international condemnation of China's aggression against Filipino vessels. However, the EU's position on coming to the aid of the Philippines in the South China Sea disputes remains unclear. It is imperative for the EU to take a firm stance against China's aggressive actions in the region.
India is taking a greater interest in the China-Philippines maritime dispute, but is content to play “second fiddle” as an extra-regional player. India's involvement in the South China Sea disputes could provide much-needed support to the Philippines and other countries facing Chinese aggression in the region.
Still, the Philippine president sought to assure China it was not a target, saying the summit was 'not against any country.' Despite tensions in the region, the Philippines remains open to dialogue and diplomacy in resolving the South China Sea disputes.
The Association of Southeast Asian Nations is a regional organization that brings together disparate neighbors to address economic, security, and political issues. ASEAN plays a crucial role in mediating disputes in the South China Sea and promoting peaceful resolutions to conflicts in the region.
The South China Sea dispute has the potential to unleash disastrous instability, yet this is not an issue that is beyond the reach of diplomatic solutions. It is essential for all parties involved to engage in dialogue and negotiations to prevent further escalation of tensions in the region.
Huddled in the presidential situation room in February last year, senior Philippines officials faced a stark choice. The Philippines must navigate its complex relationship with China while also seeking support from allies like the United States to address the challenges posed by Chinese aggression in the South China Sea.
