South China Sea: Changing Dynamics

Abstract

Actions taken by China in the South China Sea have alarmed many of the countries in the region. It is China’s assertion of ownership of certain islands, islands also claimed by other Southeast Asian nations that contributed to the protest by The Philippines before the Permanent Court of Justice. In 2016, the Court’s ruling was rendered. Actions and reactions by the affected parties to the ruling, as well as political events, make 2016 an interesting year. The election of a new president in The Philippines and in the United States adds to the fluid dynamics in the region.