School of War Ep 229: Nadège Rolland on China’s Borderlands
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Sep 9, 2025 Nadège Rolland, a Distinguished Fellow in China Studies, sheds light on China's evolving vision of its frontiers and its strategic maneuvers regarding border regions. She discusses the complexities of territorial disputes with neighbors like India and Bhutan and how historical narratives shape China's perception of sovereignty. Rolland highlights the intricate balance between asserting influence and managing security through initiatives like the Belt and Road project, offering a nuanced view of China's geopolitical ambitions.
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Borderlands As Strategic Space
- China treats its frontiers as strategic space essential for its rise and regional dominance.
- The party sees borderlands as areas to extend influence using nonmilitary tools alongside deterrence.
How China Became So Large
- Rolland notes China's modern borders formed largely during the Qing dynasty expansion.
- She highlights that interior 'borderlands' remain ethnically distinct and politically sensitive for the CCP.
Sovereignty Rhetoric vs Blurred Boundaries
- China publicly champions sovereignty but blends borders, borderlands, and periphery in policy.
- This blurred boundary allows Beijing to act beyond strict Westphalian lines without always using overt force.
