The Territorial Disputes in the SCS and Taiwan’s Democracy Dividends

The South China Sea (SCS) conflict involves complex disputes over territorial waters, jurisdictional boundaries, and maritime entitlements among littoral states with overlapping claims. Despite decades of tension, these parties have generally managed to avoid major crises or war while advancing conflicting positions shaped by divergent national interests. Taiwan, though geographically proximate, economically significant, and a vibrant liberal democracy, has been marginalized in the core debates over the SCS. In this study, we explore the strategic implications of Taiwan’s deeper integration into regional maritime governance, emphasizing its democratic contributions. We argue that Taiwan’s inclusion could promote greater transparency, adherence to international law, and multilateral cooperation, enhancing the prospects for sustainable peace and development in the region.