S.Res.86 - Expressing the sense of the Senate regarding United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758 (XXVI) and the harmful conflation of China’s One China Principle and the United States' One China Policy. (119th Congress)
Summary
S.Res.86 expresses the Senate's stance on United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758 and the People's Republic of China's (PRC) "One China Principle," clarifying the U.S. "One China Policy." The resolution aims to counter the PRC's misrepresentation of Resolution 2758 to assert sovereignty over Taiwan. It reaffirms U.S. support for Taiwan's international participation and emphasizes the distinction between the U.S. policy and the PRC's principle.
Expected Effects
The resolution will likely strengthen U.S. diplomatic efforts to support Taiwan's international presence. It may also lead to increased scrutiny of PRC's narratives within international forums. The resolution could influence other nations to differentiate their policies from the PRC's "One China Principle."
Potential Benefits
- Clarifies U.S. Policy: Reinforces the U.S.'s position on Taiwan, distinguishing it from the PRC's stance.
- Supports Taiwan's Participation: Encourages Taiwan's involvement in international organizations.
- Counters PRC's Narrative: Addresses and opposes the PRC's misrepresentation of UN Resolution 2758.
- Strengthens International Partnerships: Supports allies in maintaining and strengthening ties with Taiwan.
- Promotes Peaceful Resolution: Reaffirms the U.S. interest in a peaceful resolution of cross-Strait issues.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for Increased Tensions: Could strain U.S.-China relations, leading to diplomatic or economic repercussions.
- Risk of Misinterpretation: The resolution's language could be misinterpreted, leading to unintended consequences.
- Limited Direct Impact: As a Senate resolution, it lacks the force of law and primarily serves as a statement of opinion.
- Possible Economic Retaliation: China could impose economic sanctions or other retaliatory measures.
- Exacerbation of Regional Instability: The resolution could be perceived as escalatory, increasing instability in the region.
Constitutional Alignment
The resolution aligns with the U.S. Constitution by supporting the nation's foreign policy objectives and promoting international cooperation. While the Constitution does not explicitly address foreign policy stances on specific regions, Article I, Section 8 grants Congress the power to regulate commerce with foreign nations and declare war, implying a broader authority over foreign affairs. The resolution's emphasis on peaceful resolution also aligns with the Constitution's aim to "provide for the common defence, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty."
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).