Steering a Steady Course in the South China Sea

Abstract

The Republic of the Philippines is a long-standing US ally. Despite this, the US has not recognized Philippine claims of sovereignty over features in the South China Sea in preference to the claims of the Peoples Republic of China or other non-allies. This position raises tension in the region and poorly supports a treaty ally. However, it is the correct policy. The policy of neutrality over claims of sovereignty supports US enduring interests in rules-based international order and is still in accord with our defensive alliances. This paper explores US policy, the history of Philippine-PRC territorial claims and recent developments, and the potential impact of supporting one side or the others claim. It concludes the status quo policy is the best option to achieve US global interests but recommends minor adjustments.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Oct 27, 2017
Accession Number
AD1047888

Entities

People

  • Keith E. Patton

Organizations

  • Naval War College

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Counter WMD
  • Ground and Sea Platforms
  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Agreements
  • Alliances
  • Coast Guard
  • Employment
  • Foreign Relations
  • Governments
  • Intergovernmental Organizations
  • International Law
  • International Relations
  • Military Operations
  • National Security
  • Navigation
  • Philippines
  • Prompt Global Strike
  • South China Sea
  • Territorial Disputes
  • Treaties

Fields of Study

  • Political science

Readers

  • East Asian Political and Security Studies within the Soviet Union