In a paragraph of 5–7 sentences, choose two of the nations involved in the conflict(south china sea)

Question

and critique their actions. Are their actions justified or unjustified? Legal or illegal?
Moral or immoral? How does the evidence in your sources support your critique?

Answer 1

In the South China Sea conflict, China's aggressive territorial claims and military buildup have been widely criticized as unjustified and illegal under international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). China's extensive nine-dash line claim encroaches on the exclusive economic zones (EEZ) of several Southeast Asian nations, including the Philippines and Vietnam. Despite a 2016 ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration that favored the Philippines, China has continued to assert its presence, deploying coast guard vessels and constructing military installations on disputed islands. This brazen disregard for international law and sovereignty raises moral concerns, as it undermines regional stability and violates the rights of smaller nations to resource access and security. In contrast, the Philippines has largely sought diplomatic avenues to resolve the dispute, often calling for dialogue and multilateral engagement, reflecting a more lawful and moral approach. While both nations are complicit in tensions, evidence suggests that China’s actions are more aggressive and legally questionable, contributing to an escalating conflict that threatens peace in the region.