Vietnamese Publications

South China Sea in 2024 - 2025: “Strong Currents” on Multiple Fronts

In 2024, the South China Sea experienced remarkable developments across various dimensions. Some claimants solidified their marine claims and enhanced transparency in on-site operations compared to 2023. The scope and intensity of on-site tensions expanded, especially as Chinese and Philippine forces repeatedly clashed at strategic locations such as Second Thomas Shoal, Scarborough Shoal, Sabina Shoal, and Iroquois. In 2025, the South China Sea will potentially witness further “gray zone” activities in multiple domains and be increasingly attached to big power competition as well as other hotspots. Key stakeholders will probably try to promote the rule of law and establish norms in emerging fields, particularly those led by major powers.