Australia in the World Ep. 149: The (geopolitical) loneliness of Australia
Feb 15, 2025
David Rennie, geopolitics editor at The Economist and former Beijing bureau chief, dives into the geopolitical loneliness facing Australia in a rapidly changing world. He discusses the assertive turn of China post-COVID-19 and the impact on Australia-China relations. Rennie explores the paradox of Trump’s China policy and its implications for U.S. politics. As Australia reassesses its foreign strategies, he emphasizes the need for a nuanced understanding of global power dynamics amid rising tensions.
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China's New Assertive Posture
- China has become more assertive, unapologetic about its model, and rejects external criticisms.
- The reduction in Western engagement reflects both Chinese policy choices and doubts about openness.
Youth Disenchantment in China
- Chinese youth express disillusionment with social mobility, facing a lack of opportunities disproportionately.
- The Communist Party responds with admonitions rather than empathy, emphasizing discipline over reform.
CCP Civilizational Legitimacy Shift
- The CCP shifts legitimacy from economic performance to civilizational and ethno-nationalist claims.
- This approach rejects Western influence and promotes a unique, continuous Chinese identity led by the Party.