Chinese Whispers What is China's 'United Front' agenda?
Jan 27, 2025
Charlie Parton, a former British diplomat in Beijing and chief advisor to the Council on Geostrategy’s China Observatory, delves into China's 'United Front' strategy. He explains how this tactic serves the CCP’s agenda by shaping political landscapes and influencing societal groups. The conversation highlights the implications of elite capture, including Prince Andrew's ties to Chinese business. Parton discusses the risks of foreign lobbying on democratic institutions and the UK's strategies to counter Chinese influence, emphasizing the need for transparency and robust governance.
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United Front Strategy
- The United Front strategy involves identifying a main enemy (e.g., the US) and shifting allies' positions.
- The goal is to move allies from friendly to neutral and neutral parties to friendly toward China.
Domestic Role of United Front
- The United Front Work Department is a key department in the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), not just focused on foreign affairs.
- Domestically, it manages the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), a large consultative body.
United Front Targets
- Within China, the United Front targets non-communist groups like intellectuals, religious groups, ethnic minorities, and the business sector.
- It also includes the eight democratic parties, which nominally exist but ultimately follow CCP leadership.