Bullying the World: How China's Aggressive Tactics in the South China Sea Are Fueling Global Resentment

Introduction

In the past few decades, China's ambitions in the South China Sea (SCS) have grown increasingly evident, marked by a relentless pursuit of territorial expansion. Through the construction of artificial islands, the buildup of the world's largest naval fleet, and the strategic deployment of paramilitary maritime forces, China has asserted claims over vast areas of the SCS. 

These actions have not only hindered neighboring nations' access to their exclusive economic zones (EEZ) but have also stirred a broader sense of unease and resentment globally. With the recent release of a 10-dash line "standard map" aimed at tightening its territorial claims, China seems to be doubling down on its coercive tactics. However, these aggressive maneuvers may be driving a wedge between China and the rest of the world, as more nations begin to view Beijing not just as a regional hegemon, but as a global bully.

China’s Coercive Tactics: A Recipe for Global Resentment 

China's approach to asserting dominance in the SCS has been characterized by a myriad of coercive tactics that often blur the line between diplomacy and aggression. Employing what has been termed 'grey zone' tactics—actions that fall short of outright warfare but are aggressive enough to intimidate and harass—China aims to secure its regional hegemony. This strategy, embodied in the Chinese proverb ‘Kill the chicken to scare the monkey,’ serves as a stark warning not only to the directly affected nations but to the entire region. The message is clear: challenging China's claims could lead to severe consequences.

These tactics are not confined to the SCS. Countries far beyond the immediate region, including the United States, Japan, and even Canada, have found themselves on the receiving end of China's assertive maneuvers. Risky encounters between Chinese forces and those of other nations are becoming increasingly common, leading to heightened tensions and a growing sense of unease about China's intentions. China's aggressive stance is causing many nations to reassess their foreign policies, pushing them closer together in opposition to Beijing’s expansionist agenda.

Regional Coalition

Kelly Grieco, a Senior Fellow with the Reimagining US Grand Strategy Program, suggests that the prospects for building a regional coalition to counter Chinese aggression are significantly higher in the SCS than in the Taiwan Strait. This is because the countries involved see China's infringements on sovereignty in the SCS as directly linked to their national security interests. The increase in activity around Taiwan is viewed by many as a precursor to how China might escalate its coercive tactics in other regions, leaving nations to search for ways to rebalance their standing against what is increasingly perceived as a regional—and potentially global—bully.

The Global Impact of China’s Bullying Behavior

The territorial disputes in the SCS are not new, but China's increasingly aggressive tactics have elevated these conflicts to new heights. China’s coast guard has harassed, chased away, blocked, and occasionally attacked Vietnamese and Philippine fishermen within their EEZs. These actions, often executed by unmarked civilian vessels of China's maritime militia, are frequently backed by the China Coast Guard, which claims to be enforcing Chinese law and territory. This pattern of behavior is not isolated to the SCS; similar tactics are being employed against nations and entities worldwide that are perceived to threaten China's expanding influence.

The implications of China’s aggressive behavior extend far beyond the immediate region. Nations that might have once been ambivalent about China’s rise are now increasingly wary, viewing Beijing's actions as a threat not just to regional stability, but to global order. 

China's Disregard for International Norms

The growing list of countries that have experienced confrontations with China—whether in the SCS, the East China Sea, or elsewhere—reflects a broader trend of international resentment towards Beijing's tactics. The cumulative effect of these encounters is that China is increasingly seen not as a responsible global power, but as a nation willing to disregard international norms to achieve its strategic goals.

This shift in perception is significant. As more countries begin to view China’s actions as a direct challenge to their sovereignty and security, there is a growing consensus that something must be done to counter Beijing’s ambitions. This sentiment is not limited to the governments of the affected nations; it is also reflected in global public opinion, with increasing numbers of people around the world viewing China as a hostile power. This growing enmity could have far-reaching consequences for China’s global standing, potentially isolating it on the world stage and undermining its long-term strategic objectives.

The Role of the United States and Other Maritime Nations 

In response to China's aggressive tactics, the United States and other maritime nations have stepped up their efforts to support the SCS nations and counter Beijing's influence. The U.S., in particular, has played a pivotal role in coordinating regional and international responses to China’s actions. US Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro has highlighted the importance of naval diplomacy in strengthening the network of security alliances and partnerships that the U.S. has cultivated over decades. This approach, often referred to as integrated deterrence, involves a combination of military presence, strategic partnerships, and diplomatic engagement to counter China's influence in the SCS.

Southeast Asian nations have also received significant support from other maritime powers, including Australia and Japan, who have invested in cooperative engagements and security initiatives across the region. 

Rotation of Maritime Patrols by Like-Minded Nations

As countries like the Philippines and Vietnam increase their joint patrols in the SCS, there is a growing opportunity for the U.S. to enhance these efforts by coordinating a continual rotation of ships to patrol alongside like-minded nations. This U.S.-led initiative would not only provide additional maritime capabilities but also serve as a clear signal to China that its aggressive tactics will not go unchallenged.

The U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) has also played a critical role in building the capacity of Southeast Asian maritime security forces. By rotating the deployment of cutters and sharing best practices in maritime security with countries like the Philippines, Japan, Indonesia, Singapore, South Korea, and Australia, the USCG is helping to strengthen the region’s ability to assert its sovereignty. This sustained engagement has the potential to enhance the organic capabilities of these nations, allowing them to better resist China’s coercive tactics.

However, the U.S. Navy (USN) faces challenges in adapting to the evolving security environment in the SCS. While the USN is the world’s premier “blue water” navy, the SCS nations are seeking “green water” maritime support to address the unique challenges posed by China's grey zone tactics. To better support these nations, the USN must consider how its independent deployers can receive dedicated “green water” maritime security training. Additionally, the USCG could establish a detachment in the Pacific theater, rotating crews to USN ships to enhance maritime law enforcement operations and provide specialized training to Southeast Asian partners.

China’s Global Image Problem

 As China continues to assert its claims in the SCS and beyond, it risks alienating more and more countries. The release of Beijing’s new 10-dash line map has drawn widespread condemnation from the international community, exacerbating tensions in the region and beyond. Southeast Asian nations, supported by international allies, are increasingly standing up to China’s coercive tactics, creating significant pressure on Beijing to reconsider its approach.

The global backlash against China’s actions is not just a matter of diplomatic friction; it reflects a broader concern about the kind of global power China intends to be. Countries around the world are asking whether China will respect international norms and the sovereignty of other nations, or whether it will continue to pursue its goals through bullying and intimidation. The answer to this question will have profound implications for China’s future role on the world stage.

Conclusion

China’s aggressive tactics in the SCS are not just about territorial disputes; they are part of a broader strategy that is increasingly being viewed with suspicion and hostility by the international community. As more countries experience the brunt of China’s coercive behavior, there is a growing consensus that Beijing is earning the world’s enmity. This global backlash could have significant implications for China’s strategic ambitions, potentially isolating it from the very international system it seeks to dominate. If China continues on its current path, it may find that its quest for regional hegemony has come at the cost of global friendship and cooperation.

Sources:

Aguilar, M. (2024, August 28). U.S. taking a twofold stand vs. China’s bullying in South China Sea: Coast guard admiral. Philippine Star. https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2024/08/28/2381211/us-taking-twofold-stand-vs-chinas-bullying-south-china-sea-coast-guard-admiral

Blinken, A. J. (2021, July 11). Overwhelmed by Chinese fleets Filipino fishermen ‘protest and adapt’. The New York Times. https://www.nytimes.com/2021/07/11/world/asia/philippines-south-china-sea-fishermen.html

Grieco, K. (2023, November 17). Philippines military accuses China of bullying and vows to continue South China Sea missions. The Guardian. https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/nov/17/philippines-military-accuses-china-of-bullying-and-vows-to-continue-south-china-sea-missions

Nobody likes a bully: China’s grip over the South China Sea is slipping. (2023, November 15). 9DashLine. https://www.9dashline.com/article/nobody-likes-a-bully-chinas-grip-over-the-south-china-sea-is-slipping

Sugimoto, A. (2024, August 28). China keeps testing the limits of its aggression. Time. https://time.com/6302515/china-philippines-south-china-sea-aggression/

A Journey Through Vietnam: Unforgettable Moments in Ho Chi Minh City

We Visit Our Son Nik and His 

Our trip to Ho Chi Minh City was an exciting and memorable experience. We stayed with our son Nik and his wife Boots at Vinhomes Grand Park. Nik works for FPT, the largest IT company in Vietnam. Vinhomes Grand Park is beautiful, filled with modern condos, green parks, well-maintained gardens, and lovely ponds full of koi fish. Staying there felt like stepping into a peaceful oasis amidst the hustle and bustle of city life. 

The tranquility of the surroundings allowed us to unwind and truly immerse ourselves in the experience of visiting a new country. The blend of modernity and nature in Vinhomes Grand Park perfectly represents the balance Vietnam strives for—honoring the past while embracing the future.

A Birthday Dinner at The Deck Saigon

On Nik’s birthday, August 8, 2024, he and Boots took us to dinner at The Deck Saigon, a cozy and charming restaurant with an Asian fusion and vegetarian-friendly menu. The restaurant is located right by the Saigon River, just a 15-minute Grab ride from downtown Ho Chi Minh City. The setting is romantic, and the food is exceptionally well-prepared.

The gentle breeze from the river, combined with the warm lighting and the sounds of the city in the distance, created an ambiance that was both intimate and lively. A highlight of the evening was meeting a Filipino waiter who had been living in Vietnam for six years, who added a personal touch to our dining experience. His stories of adapting to life in Vietnam resonated with us and highlighted the diverse expatriate community thriving in Ho Chi Minh City. 

The Deck Saigon is famous for its excellent service, delicious international menu, and its stunning riverside location. The best time to visit is around dusk, when the sunset paints the sky in beautiful colors. During happy hour, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM, guests can enjoy half-priced cocktails from a select menu. This made the evening even more special, as we toasted to Nik’s birthday while watching the city transform under the fading sunlight. The combination of good company, great food, and an unbeatable setting made this dinner one of the highlights of our trip.

Exploring the Independence Palace

The following day, we visited the Saigon Independence Palace, also known as the Reunification Palace. This iconic landmark offers a deep dive into Vietnam's history and culture, especially during the Vietnam War. The palace features luxuriously furnished rooms, a grand exterior, and beautiful gardens. Walking through the opulent rooms, it was easy to imagine the weight of the decisions made within these walls, decisions that shaped the course of Vietnam's history. Inside, we explored various rooms and exhibits that gave us a glimpse into the lives of Vietnam’s past leaders and their roles during the war. 

The attention to detail in preserving these spaces allowed us to feel a connection to the past, as if the history was not just something to be observed, but something to be felt. The palace is a significant historical site, symbolizing the political and military struggles of southern Vietnam, and it is a must-see for history enthusiasts. The visit made me reflect on the resilience of the Vietnamese people and the complexities of war, leaving me with a deep respect for the country's history.

A Visit to the War Remnants Museum

On our third day, we visited the War Remnants Museum, which provides a sobering and educational look at the Vietnam War from the Vietnamese perspective. The museum’s exhibits include artifacts, photographs, and personal accounts that depict the harsh realities of the war, including the devastating effects of chemical weapons like Agent Orange. The displays are powerful and thought-provoking, offering visitors a deep reflection on Vietnam's turbulent history. 

As we walked through the exhibits, the images and stories stirred a mix of emotions—sadness, anger, and a profound sense of empathy. The museum does not shy away from the horrors of war, and its candid portrayal of the impact on civilians made me realize the true cost of conflict. The experience was a stark reminder of the importance of peace and the need for understanding and reconciliation in the world. It was an intense visit, but one that I believe is essential for anyone who wants to understand Vietnam’s past and its journey to the present.

Saigon Central Post Office: A Blend of Cultures

After a day of rest at Vinhomes Grand Park, we explored the Saigon Central Post Office, a must-see attraction in Ho Chi Minh City. This magnificent building is a perfect blend of neo-classical European architecture and Asian decorations. Designed by Gustave Eiffel, the architect behind the Eiffel Tower, the post office is one of the most iconic symbols of the city. 

The building features a stunning facade, a large clock that has been running for over 130 years, and two large maps that depict Saigon and its surroundings in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. 

Standing in the post office, I couldn’t help but marvel at how such a grand and functional structure could also be so artistically designed. It’s a testament to the architectural visionaries of the time who sought to create buildings that were both practical and beautiful. 

The post office’s enduring beauty and historical significance make it a vital part of Ho Chi Minh City's colonial legacy. As I explored the building, I thought about the countless letters and telegrams that must have passed through its walls, each carrying a piece of someone’s life. The post office, to me, felt like a bridge between past and present, connecting the old world of communication with the modern city that has grown around it.

We Visited HCM City Book Street

We did not miss , of course, Ho Chi Minh City's Book Street, officially known as "Đường Sách Nguyễn Văn Bình." It is a charming pedestrian street dedicated to books and literature. Nestled in the heart of the city, near landmarks like the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica and the Central Post Office, it offers a tranquil escape from the bustling urban environment.

The atmosphere on the street is vibrant yet serene, a perfect blend of intellectual curiosity and leisurely exploration. The street is lined with towering trees that provide ample shade, creating a cool and comfortable environment even on warmer days. 

The street is often dotted with colorful banners, book-related art installations, and murals that celebrate literature and reading. It's a place where book lovers, families, students, and tourists alike can come together to explore, relax, and indulge in their love for books.

As you stroll through the street, you'll find an array of well-organized book stalls and small shops, each offering a different selection of books. Browsing through the collections is an immersive experience. Many of the stores are beautifully designed with wooden shelves and cozy reading corners, inviting you to take your time as you explore. You can find both new releases and timeless classics, ranging from Vietnamese literature to international bestsellers.

The street offers a diverse selection of books for sale. You'll find Vietnamese literature from both contemporary and classic authors, alongside translations of popular international novels and non-fiction works. There’s also a wide variety of children’s books, including picture books, fairy tales, and educational materials. 

For those interested in more specialized topics, the street features academic and non-fiction books on subjects like history, science, business, and self-help. Additionally, comics and graphic novels, both local and international, cater to fans of visual storytelling. Art lovers can also browse beautifully crafted coffee table books on photography, architecture, and Vietnamese art.

The street is more than just a place to buy books. It’s a cultural hub where various events and activities take place regularly. You might stumble upon a book signing, a literary talk, a poetry reading, or a children's storytelling session. These events add to the street’s lively and dynamic atmosphere.

Interspersed between the book stalls are quaint little cafes where you can grab a coffee or a light snack, which we did. These cafes are often designed to complement the literary atmosphere, with comfortable seating and quiet corners perfect for reading. It's not uncommon to see people lounging with a book in one hand and a cup of coffee in the other, completely absorbed in their reading.

Overall, HCM City's Book Street is a delightful experience for anyone who loves books and culture. The atmosphere is welcoming and relaxed, making it an ideal place to spend a few hours indulging in the simple pleasure of browsing through books and soaking in the literary ambiance.

Tasting Saigon’s Street Food: Bánh Mì

No visit to Vietnam is complete without trying the local street food. Saigon's street food scene is vibrant and everywhere you go, you’ll find delicious, affordable food served in informal settings. One of the most popular street foods is bánh mì, a short baguette filled with meat and savory ingredients like mayo, a smear of rich liver pate, pickled veggies, crunchy cucumbers, spicy chilies, and fresh herbs.

It is often served as a meal. The best bánh mì can only be found in Vietnam, where it originated. The first bite of an authentic bánh mì was quite a revelation—crisp on the outside, soft and flavorful on the inside, with a perfect balance of savory and fresh ingredients.

Bánh Xèo

Another excellent Vietnamese street meal we tried was bánh xèo, also known as Vietnamese pancakes. These delightful crispy rice flour crêpes have a delicate golden brown crust with a chewy interior, featuring a lace-like appearance due to the many holes created as the batter sizzles on the hot pan. 

The name "bánh xèo" is derived from the sizzling sound the batter makes when it hits the pan. The pancakes are filled with a delicious combination of pork, shrimp, mung beans, onions, and bean sprouts, though the filling can be customized with ingredients like chicken, mushrooms, or green beans. Served hot off the grill or pan, bánh xèo is traditionally eaten by hand, wrapped in fresh herbs like cilantro, mint, and mustard greens, along with lettuce or rice paper. 

This roll is then dipped in "nuoc cham", a sweet and sour fish sauce dipping sauce, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Bánh xèo can also be enjoyed with chopsticks, offering a versatile and interactive dining experience that captures the essence of Vietnamese street food.

Pho

An iconic dish is pho, a flavorful noodle soup that can be eaten any time of the day. Pho is made with a rich broth, flat rice noodles, and thinly sliced beef or chicken, and it’s served with fresh herbs and condiments. The combination of these ingredients creates a comforting and satisfying meal that is loved by many. 

Eating street food in Saigon was more than just a culinary experience; it was a cultural one. It’s about sitting on tiny stools on the sidewalk, surrounded by the sounds and smells of the city, and sharing a meal with locals. It’s an experience that brings you closer to the heart of the city, and it’s one that we will always remember fondly.

An Unforgettable Experience

Our visit to Vietnam was truly an unforgettable experience. From the rich history and culture, we explored at the Independence Palace and War Remnants Museum to the vibrant street food scene and the charm of Saigon Central Post Office, every moment was filled with discovery and delight. The warmth of the people, the beauty of the surroundings, and the depth of the history we encountered made our trip to Vietnam one we will always cherish. 

As Loida and I reflect on our journey, we realize that Vietnam is a country of contrasts—where tradition meets modernity, where the scars of the past coexist with the hopes for the future. It’s a place that has left a lasting impression on us, and we know that the memories we made there will stay with us for the rest of our lives.