Lecture 11: peace and conflict in Asia Flashcards
Sino-Vietnamese War (February 1979)
ate: February 17 – March 16, 1979
China’s Name: Self-Defensive Counterstrike against Vietnam (对越自卫反击战)
Vietnam’s Name: War against Chinese Expansionism (Chiến tranh chống bành trướng Trung Hoa)
Key Facts:
China invaded Vietnam with 220,000 troops.
Ground war only, no air or naval combat.
One-month conflict, ending with a unilateral Chinese ceasefire.
Casualties: Around 30,000 deaths and 35,000 wounded per side.
Outcome: No territorial changes, pre-war status quo maintained.
Significance: Last time China took military action in Asia.
East Asian Peace Theory
Historical Context:
From 1946–1979, East Asia accounted for 80% of global battle deaths.
Since the Sino-Vietnamese War (1979), no major interstate wars, only minor internal conflicts (e.g., Myanmar).
Explanations for Peace:
ASEAN+ Model: Emphasis on consultation, consensus-building, and trade over political integration.
Not Democratic Peace Theory: Many East Asian states remain autocratic or semi-democratic.
Deterrence: Military buildups and strategic alliances may prevent war.
National Priority Shifts: Elites moved from ideological struggles to economic growth.
Political & Economic Stabilization: Most states have consolidated power, reducing internal opposition.
Fragile Peace:
Despite peace, nations still arm themselves, issue threats, and plan for potential conflicts.
Uncertain Future: Will East Asia’s peace last, or is a major war inevitable?
