Racist Stereotypes in Beijing’s Backyard: The South China Sea Dispute Takes a Dark Turn

The diplomatic spat between Manila and Beijing over the Philippines’ “racist depiction” of Filipinos in videos published by state-backed newspaper China Daily is the latest manifestation of the deepening animosity between the two nations. Beneath this controversy lies a complex web of grievances, national pride, and competing claims to the strategic South China Sea region, which has long been a flashpoint for regional tensions.

At its core, the dispute over the South China Sea is about more than geography or resources – it’s also about prestige and influence. The Philippines’ decision to lodge a formal diplomatic protest against China Daily’s videos is not merely a response to a perceived slight, but an attempt to reclaim the narrative around this contentious issue. By accusing Beijing of resorting to “demeaning, dehumanizing, and racist depictions” of Filipinos, Manila seeks to draw attention to what it sees as China’s increasingly aggressive behavior in the region.

China Daily’s videos are part of a series marking the 10th anniversary of the 2016 arbitral award, which ruled overwhelmingly in favor of the Philippines and found that China’s sweeping claims in the South China Sea had no legal basis under international law. These videos attempt to rewrite history by depicting Filipinos in derogatory manners, thereby trying to delegitimize the tribunal’s findings and undermine the legitimacy of Manila’s claims.

The context of these videos is noteworthy because they are essentially an exercise in rewriting history. Beijing is attempting to legitimize its own narrative by undermining that of the Philippines. However, this approach has risks, as evidenced by the recent joint statement from the Philippines’ allies – including the United States, Germany, Japan, and the United Kingdom – reiterating support for what they describe as “legally binding” and “definitive” findings.

The Philippines’ protest is not an isolated incident. Rather, it’s part of a broader pattern of behavior that has characterized Beijing’s engagement with the region in recent years. China has consistently pushed the boundaries of acceptable behavior, from its aggressive expansion into the Spratly Islands to its efforts to undermine international law and challenge the authority of regional institutions.

This propaganda war – waged through state-backed media outlets like China Daily – is a key component of Beijing’s strategy for projecting influence and shaping public opinion. By controlling the narrative around contentious issues, China can shape perceptions and build support among regional populations, thereby furthering its interests without necessarily resorting to direct military action.

The implications of this dispute are far-reaching, not just for Manila and Beijing but also for the wider region. If left unchecked, Beijing’s behavior could have serious consequences for regional stability – including the potential for miscalculation or unintended escalation. By continuing to push its claims in the South China Sea, China is placing a premium on military might over diplomatic engagement, which only serves to heighten tensions and increase the risk of conflict.

The role that media plays in shaping public opinion cannot be overstated – particularly in regions where state-backed outlets wield significant influence. However, this approach also raises important questions about the limits of free speech and the responsibility that comes with media influence.

As tensions continue to simmer, one thing is clear: this dispute is not just about two nations – it’s also about the future of regional stability. Will Beijing choose cooperation or confrontation? The choice is ultimately up to Beijing – and what we see from here may be telling.