On 12 July the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) in The Hague ruled in favour of the Philippines over China in a dispute over maritime claims in the South China Sea.
The case was brought to the PCA in 2013 and many – none more so than China – were stunned by the comprehensive nature of the verdict in Manila’s favour. Indeed, the decision can be seen as nothing less than a damning indictment of Chinese policy and behaviour.
Andrew Erickson, professor of strategy at the US Naval War College, commented, ‘This is a remarkable victory for the Philippines.’ He added, ‘Many will