UNCLOS and the Future of Maritime Disputes in South China Sea

Author: M I Sharif
DOI: doi.org/10.70279/bmj-v1-i1-1096
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United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) came into effect in 1994. All nations in the South China Sea except Chinese Taipei complied with the convention. Philippines, Vietnam, China, Brunei and Malaysia are the nations which ratified the convention consecutively. Chinese Taipei in 1998 adopted a series of domestic laws that conformed to the provisions of UNCLOS. Although some overlapping claims are noticeable, peaceful resolutions are possible according to the part XV of the convention. The peaceful way of settling the disputes is gainful for China because these can lead to good partnerships. Chinese ambitions may sound counterproductive but the soft approach will help China maintain a sphere of influence and support for its rise. The formation of Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) is an indication of influential superpower position of China through which she wants to contest USA. In fact, China is ready to make concessions peacefully with her neighbouring countries in order to remove the feeling of need for USA.