Hague Tribunal Rejects Beijing’s Claims in South China Sea

A long-awaited decision from the international Permanent Court of Arbitration at the Hague has rejected China’s claims to most of the South China Sea along with the construction of artificial islands and damage to coral reefs. “The landmark case, brought by the Philippines, was seen as an important crossroads in China’s rise as a global power,” writes Jane Perlez for the New York Times. “It is the first time the Chinese government has been summoned before the international justice system, and neighboring countries have hoped that the outcome will provide a model for negotiating with Beijing or for challenging its assertive tactics in the region.” China, rejecting the court’s jurisdiction, had refused to participate. China and the Philippines are signatories to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea while the United States is not. China is the top export and import partner for the Philippines. No enforcement mechanism is attached to the ruling, and many hope that diplomats move swiftly to ease tensions and settle disputes. – YaleGlobal