The nine-dash crayon line that got Barbie banned in Vietnam

The upcoming Barbie movie has generated worldwide excitement. Unfortunately, citizens in Vietnam won’t have the opportunity to enjoy it as its government has banned the film.

Scheduled for release on July 21st, the highly anticipated Barbie movie, featuring a stellar cast, has faced a setback as the Vietnamese government has decided to ban its screening. The ban is attributed to a scene in the movie that depicts the South China Sea, sparking concerns and leading to the decision to restrict its release.

The scene in question consists of a 9-dash line on the map that indicates China’s extent of territorial claims in the South China Sea. China’s use of the nine-dash line as a territorial demarcation has led to disputes with neighboring countries like Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei, and Taiwan.

A spokesperson for Warner Bros. Film Group said that the map featured in the movie is to reflect a drawing made by a child. They explained that the doodles on the map depict Barbie’s imaginary travels and were not intended to make any political statements.

As the controversy surrounding the line continues to strain relations between Vietnam and China, the Vietnamese government made the decision to prohibit the screening of the Barbie movie. The ban is a precautionary measure taken to avoid any potential escalation of tensions and conflicts arising from the disputed maritime claims in the South China Sea.

In fact, movies such as Abominable and Uncharted have faced similar bans due to their depiction of the nine-dash line. The bans reflect the rejection of China’s claims and aim to assert their sovereignty while highlighting the sensitivity and complexity surrounding the territorial disputes.

The South China Sea is located in the western Pacific Ocean. For decades, territorial disputes have persisted. The area is rich in natural resources, including oil and gas reserves, and is a vital international shipping route.

Strategically, the South China Sea’s location makes it highly desirable for countries seeking to enhance their regional influence. Its proximity to major shipping lanes and important fishing grounds offers both economic and military advantages. The control of strategic positions within the area allows countries to project power, protect their maritime interests, and potentially limit the influence of rival nations.

Additionally, the territory holds geopolitical significance, with its waters serving as a gateway to the Pacific Ocean. As a major global power, the US has emphasized the importance of all countries having the right to sail and fly freely here, regardless of territorial claims. This ensures open access to the vital shipping routes in the area and supports global trade.

Security concerns also drive the United States’ interests. China’s increasing military presence, including the construction of artificial islands and deployment of military forces, raises concerns about the potential threat it poses to the security of the region. The United States closely monitors China’s actions and advocates for a peaceful and rules-based approach to resolving disputes.