From Contestation to Hegemony China's Assertiveness in the South China Sea: An Analysis of Beijing's Military, Diplomatic, and Symbolic Strategies around the Paracel and Spartly Islands since 2014

Diard, Pauline
(2026)

Files

DIARD_96422000_2026.pdf
  • Open access
  • Adobe PDF
  • 723.54 KB
Download

Details

Supervisors
Struye de Swielande, Tanguy
Faculty
Faculté des sciences économiques, sociales, politiques et de communication
Degree label
Master [120] en sciences politiques, orientation relations internationales, à finalité spécialisée: diplomatie et résolution des conflits
Abstract
enThis thesis will focus on analyzing the Chinese strategy behind the construction of artificial islands in the South China Sea and its geopolitical impact. It will examine how these infrastructures could strengthen Beijing’s influence, both militarily and diplomatically. The study will also explore the United States’ response to this expansion, particularly through naval deployments and regional cooperation. Drawing on both realist and constructivist perspectives, the research will highlight the resulting strategic tensions and their consequences for international security.