Maritime disputes in the South China Sea present an array of potential flashpoints between countries. China in particular has actively employed its coast guard and other maritime law enforcement agencies to project power and assert sovereignty throughout the region.
Countries with high levels of prestige can attract other states to support their foreign policy goals. In order to analyze China’s changing position in the world, it is necessary to assess the source of China’s international prestige and influence.
Since late 2012, Xi Jinping’s anti-corruption campaign has targeted widespread graft in Chinese officialdom. Deeply rooted corruption in China contributes to income inequality and compromises the legitimacy of the Communist Party.
Although both China and Taiwan maintain separate militaries and governments, China continues to assert sovereignty claims over Taiwan. Beijing officially seeks peaceful reunification, but has not ruled out using force to counter efforts to create an independent Taiwan.
China’s growing global influence, economic growth and social development suggest that to some it might be considered a developed country. Yet, certain economic indicators demonstrate China is still in the process of developing.
China’s is the world’s second largest economy in terms of gross domestic product and and the largest in terms of purchasing power parity. How China leverages its considerable economic strength has a profound impact on the global economic order.
In recent years, China’s support for the UN has grown considerably. Its increasing financial and personnel contributions offer China a low-cost means of demonstrating its commitment to global stability while alleviating concerns over its growing military and economic power.
Countries that can successfully leverage their national power are able to affect the behavior of other political actors. Toward this end, the Chinese government has developed top-down strategies designed to enhance its soft power.
