China aggressive actions in the South China Sea, such as the construction of artificial islands, militarization efforts, and harassment of foreign vessels, have raised significant concerns internationally. These actions have the potential to impact regional stability. Currently, negotiations are underway between the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and China to establish a Code of Conduct (COC), which is seen as a crucial measure to address these challenges. This essay argues that the COC offers a promising opportunity to resolve conflicts and promote cooperation. However, its effectiveness hinges on the genuine commitment of all parties involved to adhere to agreed-upon rules and the establishment of robust enforcement mechanisms.

China’s actions in the South China Sea have garnered substantial global attention. Since the early 2010s, China has engaged in extensive land reclamation projects, transforming previously uninhabitable reefs and shoals into artificial islands equipped with airstrips, radar systems, missile installations, and other military infrastructure. This not only strengthens China’s strategic capabilities but also poses threats to the security and sovereignty of neighboring nations such as Vietnam, the Philippines, and Malaysia.

The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which China ratified, outlines the rights and responsibilities of nations in oceanic activities. However, China’s actions in the South China Sea violate several UNCLOS principles, particularly pertaining to territorial claims and freedom of navigation. In 2016, the Permanent Court of Arbitration ruled against China’s expansive claims based on the “nine-dash line” and the declaration of the “ten-dash line.”

Nevertheless, China has persistently continued its activities, disregarding........

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