China’s re-globalisation paradox

In the 21st century, an unprecedented economic transformation has taken place on the world’s stage. The rise of China has been an unstoppable force in recent years, with the country leading the way in globalisation. However, there are those who question the extent of China’s influence in recent years, leaving many to ponder what can be called the “China Re-Globalization Paradox.

1. Grasping China’s Global Re-entry

Since President Xi Jinping’s ascension to power, China has returned to being a superpower on the global stage. A palpable change in the country’s fortunes has been witnessed, with a resolute focus on China’s ascendant power and a simultaneous push for world dominance.

China’s ‘Global Re-entry’ has seen the country become a major player in the international arena, and its footprints can now be seen in almost every sector of government, industry, and commerce. From its increasing military expenditure, hosting a trade war with the US, to its multi-pronged initiative for global ‘infrastructure development’ – each of these have been carefully orchestrated facets of the ‘Global Re-entry’ plan.

China has:

• Dramatically increased its military expenditure and international gain.
• Completed several massive infrastructure projects that connect it to the rest of the world.
• Created its own alternative to the SWIFT payments system
• Partnered with many countries, establishing itself as a bastion of international support and partnership

These well-crafted international policies, investments and actions have demonstrated China’s commitment to global influence. China’s inexorable rise to the top of the world order is undeniable, and it is only a matter of time before the country cements its position as a true superpower.

2. Examining the Two Sides of the China Paradox

A paradox is defined as a statement that seems contradictory yet it is true in some way. It is a phrase that has baffled people for centuries, and the China Paradox is no different. The China Paradox is a term coined to highlight the dichotomy between China’s booming economic activity, and its slow progress towards and utilization of human rights.

China is a very advanced nation economically and is on its way to becoming the world’s largest economy. Major corporations have set up shop in China and its businesses are taking an ever-increasing share of global products and services. Despite this, it’s abundantly apparent that the populace of China lacks the most basic human rights. The Chinese people are deprived of basic liberties, such as freedom of speech, and access to media and information.

• Pros: Rapid economic growth.
• Cons: Inequality in human rights.

China is a case of a single nation that has two opposing faces. On the one hand, massive foreign investments have been attracted to the nation thanks to its strong performance, whereas on the other hand, this growth hasn’t been reflected in the lives of the average Chinese citizen. The true picture of the China Paradox rests in the vast difference between what it has and what it could be.

3. Overcoming the Challenges of Re-Globalisation

Economic Disparities

The varying economic and developmental conditions of countries create the most significant challenge in re-globalisation. Countries coming from a less developed economic condition face problems of mobilising resources, lack of infrastructure, and stiff competition from the more industrialised countries. The economic disparity results in an uneven playing field in terms of trade and competition for resources. To overcome this challenge, countries should:

• Implement policies to improve infrastructure and access to resources
• Collaborate with other countries to utilise collective resources and strengths
• Focus on utilising local resources

Growing Protectionism

A second challenge of re-globalisation is the lack of commitment to open trade as countries become more protective of their local industries. Countries are becoming increasingly tempted to implement measures that protect their producers and inhibit the growth of foreign producers. Such protectionism only serves to weaken the economy of the country as it reduces consumption from domestic consumers. Countries should actively encourage open trade practices, and utilise economic and trade agreements in order to reduce protectionism and promote growth.

4. Charting a Way Forward for Chinese Integration

The journey to successful Chinese integration is a long and winding one. However, with the right tools and guidance, it can be made manageable and successful. To chart a way forward to Chinese integration, here are four potential steps:

• Foster understanding. Open conversation and open lines of communication between the Chinese students and the rest of their peers. Allow time and opportunity for differing perspectives and worldviews to be shared instead of just surface conversations, so that all students can feel understood and accepted.
• Build connections. Collaborate with the parents and guardians of the Chinese students to understand the challenges they face in ensuring their children are successfully integrated into a new educational environment. Being proactive and offering things like cultural language classes and student activities can greatly assist in connecting new students with their peers.
• Provide support. Create initiatives to ensure Chinese students have access to support networks, resources and mentors that allow them to develop and thrive in the face of any difficulties faced in the integration process.
• Break down stereotypes. Work to reduce and remove any existing stereotypes through awareness and education. Encourage meaningful conversations with students and strongly discourage any kind of racism or negative comments between them.

At the end of the day, successful Chinese integration requires a lot of understanding, cooperation, and dedication. It also requires a commitment to honoring cultural differences and providing meaningful support. By actively working together and utilizing the right tools, Chinese integration can be manageable and successful. China’s re-globalisation paradox is a complex phenomenon, engaging the interests of international powers, nations, and markets. The resulting period of global uncertainty has exposed weaknesses and opportunities for economic growth, involving formidable actors and multi-dimensional policies. Despite existing tensions, the promise of a more globally connected China puts the power of learning and understanding in our hands – providing a platform from which to map out a new course.