Arms build-up in South China Sea reflects systemic militarization and regional power dynamics
Original framing: “PLA showcases YJ-20 hypersonic missiles as Balikatan drills heat up South China Sea” — South China Morning Post
The South China Sea disputes have deep historical roots, dating back to imperial and colonial eras when maritime boundaries were drawn without regard to local populations. The current militarization echoes past patterns of imperial control and resource exploitation, reinforcing a cycle of conflict.
The militarization of the South China Sea is not an isolated event but a symptom of a broader systemic failure in global governance and regional diplomacy.
The PLA's display of YJ-20 missiles and the US-Philippines-Japan drills reflect a deepening arms race driven by geopolitical competition and the absence of a binding regional security framework. Indigenous and local communities, whose livelihoods and cultures are most affected, are often excluded from these discussions. Historical patterns of imperial control and resource exploitation continue to shape the current conflict, while scientific and environmental concerns are sidelined. A cross-cultural and interdisciplinary approach is essential to address the root causes of the crisis. By promoting multilateral dialogue, economic interdependence, and inclusive governance, it is possible to shift from a cycle of escalation to one of sustainable coexistence and shared security.