

Shawn Yuan
Journalist with the BBC's Global China Unit who explains China–Taiwan relations and their global implications, providing expert analysis on geopolitics and technology supply chains.
Top 5 podcasts with Shawn Yuan
Ranked by the Snipd community

6 snips
Mar 5, 2025 • 13min
Could China replace the US as a global aid giver?
Shawn Yuan from the BBC’s Global China Unit shares insights on how China's aid models in Africa differ from the U.S., especially after the recent freeze on American foreign aid. The discussion highlights China's focus on infrastructure versus the U.S. humanitarian approach. Janice Nkajja, a Ugandan TikToker, raises concerns about aid accountability, while reporter Daniel Dadzie reveals the implications of China's increasing influence in funding strategies. Tune in for an engaging look at the shifting dynamics of global aid!

Sep 2, 2025 • 13min
How does China control its internet?
Shawn Yuan, a journalist from the BBC's Global China Unit, provides a deep dive into China's sophisticated internet censorship, famously known as the 'Great Firewall.' He discusses how the government censors Western websites and manipulates pop culture, such as editing films and banning celebrities like Lady Gaga. Yuan highlights the generational divide in perceptions of censorship and the government's narrative control strategies. He reveals how these tactics affect daily life and self-censorship, painting a complex picture of information management in China.

Jul 4, 2025 • 13min
Why choosing the next Dalai Lama could be tricky
Shawn Yuan from the BBC’s Global China Unit dives into the complexities of choosing the next Dalai Lama amidst rising tensions with China. He explains the traditional selection process and the implications of the Chinese government's claim to authority over it. The conversation highlights how these dynamics are critical to Tibetan identity and autonomy. Additionally, Yuan recounts the cultural struggles in Tibet, shedding light on the pushback against government oversight, as illustrated by real-life stories from a Sichuan monastery.

Dec 16, 2025 • 14min
Taiwan and China: Everything you need to know
Shawn Yuan, a journalist from the BBC's Global China Unit, breaks down the complex relationship between Taiwan and China. He explores Taiwan's vibrant identity and the fear of potential forceful reunification. Yuan highlights the global stakes, emphasizing how Taiwan's semiconductor dominance could impact technology everywhere. He also shares insights from Taiwanese and Chinese students about their cultural ties and the generational views shaped by education. The conversation dives into US-Taiwan relations, potential conflict scenarios, and the implications for global trade.

Jan 8, 2025 • 11min
Tibet earthquake: What we know so far
Shawn Yuan, a journalist at the BBC’s Global China Unit, provides vital insights into the devastating 7.1 magnitude earthquake that struck Tibet. He discusses ongoing rescue efforts hampered by winter conditions and the challenges of gathering information in a highly restricted region. The conversation also highlights the geopolitical context and the importance of Shigatse, along with the historical issues residents face. Yuan sheds light on the long-term challenges for survivors in impoverished areas, underscoring the complexity of disaster recovery.


