As smaller states and claimants in the South China Sea, these countries do not pursue a specific lawfare doctrine. Instead, they advocate for the full and good-faith implementation of international law. Their approach prioritizes lawfulness over lawfare, seeking to resolve disputes through peaceful means. However, depending on factors such as national capabilities, pragmatic policy choices, and the nature of their relationships with China and other external partners, each country demonstrates varying degrees and nuances in the implementation of this approach.