The island chain off mainland Asia in the Western Pacific has historically had an outsized impact on geopolitical strategy and stability. This book tackles systematically the close relationship between geopolitics and international cooperation and competition, as well as the important role and relevance of these islands in this context.

The necklace of volcanic islands running south to north off Eurasia’s eastern coast represents, in geopolitical terms, the “first line” of defense in postwar US strategic efforts to contain Russia, North Korea, and China. With Cold War vibes once again shaping the US-China relationship, Taiwan, at the center of this Western Pacific island chain and a visceral target of Chinese territorial ambition, is being increasingly discussed as a potential flashpoint for war. Geopolitics: Island Chain details the perspectives of thirteen subject experts from Taiwan on the strategic importance and position of this island chain and its effect on global geopolitics.

The first of this book’s seven chapters discusses the defining differences between traditionally land-power and maritime-power based states, and how these may influence their respective standing and prospects in this island chain. Chapter Two launches into the region’s history, the emergence of the concept of these islands as a geopolitical barrier, and its shadow over post-Korean War geopolitics. Chapter Three discusses the natural and cultural heritage of these islands and disputes over reefs and islets in the East and South China Seas. In Chapter Four, the authors attempt an overall analysis of major-power views and strategies with regards to this island chain. Chapter Five explores the current status of the island chain, and Chapter Six examines Taiwan’s relationship with the overall island chain from the perspectives of international relations, socioeconomics, military strategy, and national defense. The final chapter spotlights the authors’ varied perspectives on various island-chain-related issues.

Geopolitics is an erratic and ever-changing game, and plenty of articles and books may be found on most any political situation or potential flashpoint. This book was written to provide an easily digestible introduction to the background and current situation in East Asia’s island chain in hopes of injecting a uniquely “Taiwan perspective” on relevant issues into the broader discourse.