China’s claim on nearly 80% of the South China Sea is not valid - BBH

Research Team at BBH, notes that the Permanent Court of Arbitration has ruled that China’s claim on nearly 80% of the South China Sea is not valid. 

Key Quotes

“China has refused to recognize the legitimacy of the proceedings, and the Court lack enforcement mechanisms.  However, the case should be regarded as another move in a long chess game rather than checkmate.  It is not clear what the next move is. 

Other countries may bring similar cases against China.  China could retaliate in various ways in the region.  Even though China is an old civilization, in its new incarnation it is relatively new on the international stage.  Its relationship with international law is not always clear, and as with other large countries, it may not always be consistent.  Still, its response will be closely scrutinized for insight to get a measure of President Xi.”