Policy Brief

China
Answering the big questions about China’s future and its changing role in the world
Related Programs
Asia Energy and Sustainability Initiative, China and the World, China Philanthropy Project, China Public Policy Program
How do China’s politics and policies continue to evolve in the 21st century? Can the country continue to make both economic strides and achieve sustainable development goals? How will China’s growing influence be felt in the global community?
These are the pressing questions that our scholars at the Rajawali Foundation Institute for Asia work every day to answer. Explore the events, research, and commentary below to learn more about our work.
The latest news, research, and resources

Feature
As Russia Turns to China, Beijing Gives a Tepid Embrace
While China has been reluctant to criticize Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, HKS Professor Tony Saich believes that Beijing is treading a fine line in not alienating the West and risk becoming sanctions targets themselves

Q+A
As Xi tightens grip, China’s streets unexpectedly fill with protests
Tony Saich says demonstrators, angered over draconian COVID policies, are adopting tactics used in 1989.

Q+A
At Party Congress in Beijing, Xi Jinping Dominates China’s Political Landscape
As twice a decade conclave of party leaders concludes, Tony Saich asks whether Xi risks creating a “Putin syndrome” for China.

Q+A
Europe’s Fissures with China Deepen
With a new ban on forced labor and frustration over Beijing’s continued support of Russia mounting, the EU’s relationship with China is set to reach a new low.

Feature
What to Expect from China’s Upcoming Party Congress
Rajawali Foundation Institute for Asia Director Tony Saich, argues that Xi Jinping is telegrahing his intention to remain the dominant political force in China well into the next decade.

Video
Book Talk – Hollywood in China: Behind the Scenes of the World’s Largest Movie Market
Policy Brief
What to Expect from the 20th Congress of the Chinese Communist Party
Tony Saich predicts themes at the Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) 20th Party Congress.

Q+A
Indo-Pacific Economic Framework holds value, but it’s unclear if it will counter China’s influence says Senior Economist David Dapice
The Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF) could be beneficial for member countries, but without a regional trade agreement, a new administration could raise tariffs or otherwise change the terms of trade.

Video
War in Ukraine: The View From Beijing

China’s Influence as a Global Power: Impact on “Vulnerable States” in Europe

Video
Book Talk – The China Paradox: At the Front Line of Economic Transformation

Essay
Edward Cunningham on China’s Climate Face-offs and Trade-offs
The Chinese Communist Party is at a climate change crossroads, and how they choose to navigate it will shed light on their true priorities, says Director of the Asia Energy and Sustainability Initiative Edward Cunningham.

Feature
Hong Kong as the Canary in the Coal Mine
Ash Fellow and Former Hong Kong Legislator Dennis Kwok on China’s growing assertiveness

Essay
Elizabeth Plantan on Opportunities and Constraints for Civil Society in China
Though philanthropy and select NGOs are growing, other players in China’s civil society are coming under increased scrutiny and repression, outlines former Ash Center Fellow Elizabeth Plantan.