Courtney Fung, an Associate Professor in Security Studies at Macquarie University, delves into China’s strategic maneuvers within the UN. She outlines China's shift from reluctance to active participation in peacekeeping since 2013, framing it against the backdrop of domestic politics. The conversation also covers the tragic incidents involving Chinese peacekeepers in South Sudan, revealing the complex interplay of safety, accountability, and China's ambitions in global governance. Fung highlights how these dynamics reshape international discourse and peacekeeping policies.
China's transformation in UN peacekeeping reflects its strategic shift from initial reluctance to active military involvement, emphasizing host state consent and neutrality.
China's approach to the UN aims to enhance its global influence while maintaining a narrative of non-interference and contributing to international stability.
Deep dives
China's Historical Engagement with UN Peacekeeping
China's evolution in UN peacekeeping began with its initial reluctance, rooted in a strong opposition to Western influence during the 1970s and 1980s. Over time, particularly in the late 1980s, China started to support peacekeeping operations by contributing to missions that respected host state consent and adhered to the principles of neutrality. This transition marked China's shift towards a more active role, reflected in its contribution of troops and resources by the 1990s and early 2000s. By 2013, China fully embraced the deployment of combat troops, indicating a significant expansion of its military engagement in global peacekeeping efforts.
China's Rhetoric in the United Nations
China's approach to the United Nations emphasizes the importance of a multipolar world and the role of international law in shaping global governance. Chinese officials have consistently articulated a need for reforms within the UN, advocating for a system that aligns with its vision of a world where China holds greater influence. Furthermore, China aims to contribute to global public goods, positioning itself as a vital player that supports UN initiatives while also seeking to counter what it perceives as Western hegemony. This narrative is crucial for China's diplomatic strategy, as it seeks to enhance its prestige and authority in international affairs.
China's Response to Criticism and International Conflicts
In the wake of international conflicts, such as the war in Ukraine, China has navigated its responses with caution to maintain its principle of sovereignty while managing global criticism. China's reluctance to explicitly condemn Russia amid these tensions reflects its strategic desire to uphold its position on non-interference, even as it attempts to frame itself as a responsible global actor. Additionally, China has focused on positioning itself as a mediator in international crises, although specific initiatives have yet to yield significant outcomes. This balancing act highlights China's aim to assert its influence while mitigating external pressures and criticism regarding its foreign policy.
Domestic Politics and the United Nations Narrative
The Chinese government leverages its growing presence and contributions to the UN to foster national pride and reinforce its narrative of being a recognized global power. This positive representation often highlights China's unique contributions, such as its role in peacekeeping and development initiatives, which are portrayed as vital for international stability. However, there is limited public opinion research on how the average Chinese citizen perceives these efforts, raising questions about the domestic reception of China's UN activities. The portrayal of peacekeeper fatalities and the overall management of these narratives underscore the complexities of balancing national pride with the realities of international military engagement.
In this episode of Pekingology, Freeman Chair in China Studies Jude Blanchette is joined by Courtney Fung, Associate Professor in the Department of Security Studies & Criminology at Macquarie University. She is also a Non-Resident Fellow at the Asia Society Australia and at the Lowy Institute. They discuss her article “Peace by piece: China’s policy leadership on peacekeeping fatalities” (Contemporary Security Policy, July 2022), China’s role in the United Nations, and its involvement with international peacekeeping efforts.
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