“The South China Sea arbitration hearing is formed on the basis of UNCLOS, and so naturally its judgements are legally valid. Even if China does not participate or attend, enforcement of Article 7 of UNCLOS is in accordance with law and will put restraints on China,” he said. “However, supposing China does not accept the outcome of arbitration, there is no system in place within international law for enforcement of rulings. The Philippines brought the case in 2013, arguing that the land formations China claims in the South China Sea are nothing more than reefs and are therefore not entitled to 200 nautical mile (370.4km) exclusive economic zones. “It is like having a magical Taoist amulet in hand while challenging China on its actions,” Lin said.

Source: Taipei Times July 10, 2016 16:02 UTC