Is there a storm coming in the South China Sea?

There’s trouble brewing in the South China Sea and there doesn’t seem to be a any way to calm the waters.

Taiwan, the small island country that has been persistently seeking independence is pushing toward that goal at a fevered pace. Meanwhile China disagrees, wants Taiwan back in the fold and has stated that the country is seeking one unified China - and soon.

At a recent speech, Chinese President Xi threatening to use force to bring Taiwan under its control, though said China would strive to achieve this peacefully. And with a military budget this year of 177 billion dollars (US), China will be able to dictate its definition of the term ‘peacefully’ to suit any of its likely goals.

So, what’s next?

• Can international intervention or pressure call China off its mission to absorb Taiwan?
• Can China be stopped?
• Does Taiwan have the political capital at the UN to find actual support or protection and from who?
• And what would the consequences be in China took Taiwan with force?

There are a lot of questions to be asked and that’s where we can help.

Professor Elizabeth Larus was recently featured on CNBC Asia and updated their audience on the most recent developments and outlined what seems to be China’s next steps.

Professor Larus teaches political science at the University of Mary Washington and is an #expert on China and the field of Asian studies.  She is available to speak to other media pursuing this this subject – simply click on her icon to arrange an interview.