Featured

A New Era in China’s International Development Cooperation: A Conversation with Stella Hong Zhang

In this episode of the ChinaPower Podcast, Stella Hong Zhang joins us to discuss China’s new model of international development cooperation. Ms. Zhang analyzes China’s January 2021 white paper titled “China’s International Development Cooperation in the New Era,” the shift in China’s international development policy, and the implications that this shift has for both China and other nations around the world. She argues that the policy changes reflect China’s goal to be seen as a leader in global governance and its aim to shape discourse on China’s domestic governance model and development achievements. Lastly, Ms. Zhang explains that China’s decision to frame its international development cooperation policy in moral language plays strongly to a domestic audience that is skeptical of providing resources to other countries while China itself is still developing.

The Genesis of Chinese Thinking on Sovereignty: A Conversation with Bill Hayton

In this episode, Mr. Bill Hayton joins us to discuss the genesis of China’s thinking about sovereignty and how this history shapes Chinese foreign policy today. He discusses the influence of Western notions of sovereignty on China during the Qing Dynasty and argues that the dynastic tribute system is still reflected to some extent in China’s current international relations. Mr. Hayton frames the volatile South China Sea situation in terms of sovereignty, describing control of the islands as a deeply emotional issue that is emblematic of national pride for China. He also explains how views of sovereignty could affect China’s approach to arms control, resulting in reluctance to accept third-party inspection of compliance with international treaties. Lastly, Mr. Hayton sheds light on China’s vision of an international stage characterized by relationships between individual and sovereign states rather than coalitions and blocs.

Examining China’s Influence in the World Health Organization: A Conversation with Jeremy Youde

In this episode, Dr. Jeremy Youde joins us to discuss China’s evolving role in the World Health Organization (WHO). Dr. Youde outlines how China’s contributions to the WHO have changed over time, and highlights its main sources of influence in the organization. He also explains how the COVID-19 pandemic has exposed some of the challenges that the WHO and the international community face when working with China. Finally, he explores the risk that Taiwan’s exclusion from the WHO poses to global health, and offers insights on Taiwan’s prospects for achieving a greater role in the organization following COVID-19.

China’s Evolving Role in the United Nations: A Conversation with Courtney Fung

In this episode, Dr. Courtney Fung joins us to discuss China’s role and actions as a United Nations Security Council permanent member, including its “status dilemma” in the UN, voting and veto records, and evolving position on the Responsibility to Protect. Dr. Fung addresses China’s significant interest in UN Peacekeeping Operations and its desire to play a larger role in global governance. She also offers insights on how China may become a more active participant in the UN, as well as whether China will support UN reform.

China’s Push to Reform Global Governance: A Conversation with Melanie Hart

In this episode, Dr. Melanie Hart joins us to discuss China’s growing influence and ambitions within the global governance system. Dr. Hart addresses the key reasons behind China’s dissatisfaction with the current order, and how this has shaped its approach to adopting a leadership role in global governance reform. She also assesses the efficacy of China’s efforts and how liberal states should respond.