Liquid Borders: Visualizing the Geopolitics of the South China Sea

Keywords: South China Sea, Geopolitics, Territory, Neoimperialism
Abstract Type: Poster Abstract

Abstract

The following project is the result of my interest in exploring China’s creation of artificial islands in the South China Sea. I will produce an interactive and dynamic geopolitical map of the region with a focus on the factors that are contributing to the reshaping of the South China Sea’s geopolitics. This map will include the International EEZs, individual state’s maritime border claims, military bases, natural and artificial islands, shipping lanes, natural resources, and points of conflict. While these components are often discussed separately and independently of each other, my map will provide a comprehensive view of the region and highlight spatial relationships that may have been overlooked. This project is a unique opportunity to visualize the geopolitical struggle of power in the region between the United States and China, who are engaging in neoimperialist actions. I examine the geopolitical developments in the Sea as creating liquid borders that are continually shifting. The goal of this project is to provide a powerful cartographic lens to visualize the geopolitics of the South China Sea.