China’s rise as a global power

Why is China's rise useful for comparing realism and liberalism?

The two theories offer contrasting explanations of China's development, motivations and impact on global politics.

When did China join the WTO?

2001.

Why was China's WTO membership significant?

It marked a major shift towards China's integration into the global economy.

How did China's economy develop during the 2000s?

Its GDP grew steadily and industrial output expanded rapidly, leading it to be described as the world's factory.

What happened to China's economic growth between 2006 and 2010?

It began to rival established global economies.

When did China launch the Belt and Road Initiative?

2013.

What is the Belt and Road Initiative?

A large-scale infrastructure and investment project spanning Asia, Africa and Europe.

What happened to China's global economic position according to the notes?

It became the world's largest economy by purchasing power parity, overtaking the USA.

What did Xi Jinping's 'New Era' emphasise?

Innovation, global influence and national rejuvenation.

How has China increased its role in global governance?

It has increasingly asserted itself within institutions such as the UN Security Council.

What position does China hold on the UN Security Council?

It is a permanent member.

How would realists explain China's rise?

As the result of deliberate state-led strategies designed to maximise China's power.

How do realists interpret China's economic growth?

Economic growth has translated into greater geopolitical power and potentially threatens US hegemony.

What do realists predict about US-China relations?

Conflict may become increasingly likely as China's power grows.

How would realists interpret China's membership of the WTO and UN?

As ways of advancing Chinese national self-interest.

How would realists interpret the Belt and Road Initiative?

As part of China's attempt to reshape the global distribution of power.

How do realists interpret China's UN Security Council position?

As a source of power that China can use to pursue its interests and resist reform.

How would liberals explain China's rise?

China's development demonstrates how states can benefit from engaging with global governance institutions and the global economy.

Why was joining the WTO important from a liberal perspective?

Integration into global trade and supply chains contributed significantly to China's economic success.

How has economic interdependence benefited China?

It has contributed to improved living standards for millions of Chinese people.

How might liberals view the Belt and Road Initiative?

It could generate economic benefits for developing states and increase international interdependence.

How do liberals view China's increasing global role?

It can be positive for global governance by encouraging greater participation in international institutions.

What does China's economic success demonstrate according to liberalism?

It can provide hope to less economically developed states that significant economic change is possible.