Between Sovereignty and Submission: Vietnam's Strategic Response to Chinese Assertiveness in the South China Sea

Oscar Eveno, Carolina Cavalieri, Viola Cruciani

Through thorough analysis of the various implications this region encompasses, we will show how it is a key area for countries to secure because of its resources and its strategic importance. The necessity of having a recognised and consequential Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) has never been as important as in this region. In this paper, we will focus on Vietnam, the country which seems to fight most for its right to an EEZ in that area. The strong diplomatic tools used by both Vietnam and China allows for a great example of a regional fight, with unconventional weapons and unconventional methods. We will analyse the past history of both countries and provide an overview of different possible future scenarios.