China Declares Straight Baselines around Scarborough Reef

Abstract In late 2024 China declared territorial sea baselines around Scarborough Reef. Scarborough Reef is one of the most critical insular features in the South China Sea. It is claimed by China and the Philippines and is where the most serious at-sea conflicts between both countries have taken place. China’s 10 November 2024 baseline declaration is a further step in the legal dispute over Scarborough Reef. This article analyses China’s baselines declaration and considers its significance for the largest prize in the South China Sea – the Spratly Islands.