In a fast-changing world where geopolitical balances are constantly being called into question, Gerhard Stahl‘s book ’China: Dangerous Rival or Cooperative Partner » offers an in-depth and nuanced analysis of the complex relationship between the European Union and China. Drawing on his experience within the European institutions and as a visiting professor at Peking University in Shenzhen, the author offers a reading that goes beyond simplifications and preconceived narratives. This book is an invitation to study China’s economic and political development, drawing on a variety of facts and opinions from the worlds of business, politics and academia.
The importance of narratives and the need to overcome ‘narrative traps
From the outset, Stahl emphasises the importance of narratives in the perception of China. Drawing on the work of Robert Shiller, he explains how narratives – a mixture of facts and emotions – can influence behaviour and political decisions, and how biased narratives can become harmful ‘thought viruses’. He warns against the polarisation of opinions, exacerbated by social networks, geopolitical tensions and technological transformations. The author urges us to look beyond simplistic visions of China as either a threat or an ideal partner, highlighting the complexity of Chinese society and the diversity of viewpoints even within the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).
A Chinese society in the throes of transformation
The book explores China’s transformation from a ‘workshop of the world’ to a centre of technology and innovation. Concrete examples such as the city of Shenzhen, Deng Xiaoping’s policy of openness, and the emergence of companies such as Huawei illustrate this evolution. Stahl describes a multi-faceted Chinese society, where elements of socialism and the market economy, ancestral traditions and modernity coexist. He also discusses the challenges facing the country, such as social inequality, the urban-rural divide and environmental problems.
The role of the Communist Party and the five-year plans
China’s political system is presented in all its complexity. While the CCP plays a central role, the author emphasises that the legitimacy of the government is measured not only by the way it comes to power (entry legitimacy), but also by its ability to produce satisfactory results for the population (exit legitimacy). The five-year plans are no longer a rigid planning of the economy, but a tool for coordinating public policies. The author mentions the country’s fiscal decentralisation, with local authorities managing a significant proportion of public spending.
China in the world: influence and ambitions
China has become a major player on the international stage, investing massively in Asia, Africa and Latin America. The New Silk Roads Initiative (OBOR) is presented as an ambitious geopolitical and economic project, aimed at linking China to the rest of the world through infrastructure. Stahl explains how China is seeking to develop its influence through the dissemination of its culture, cinema and values. He highlights the development of the Chinese internet under an ‘electronic wall’ which has encouraged the growth of national companies, but which has also been criticised as a censorship measure.
Economic, technological and social issues
The book explores the economic and technological challenges posed by China’s rise to power. The author highlights the country’s growing role in innovation, particularly in patents, space, 5G and the digital economy. He also examines the ‘dual circuit’ policies that aim to strengthen both the autonomy of the national economy and its participation in the global economy. Stahl also looks at environmental challenges and China’s efforts to achieve carbon neutrality. The state of the property market and the hukou system are also discussed, highlighting the inequalities and social tensions they engender.
Europe faces up to the challenges
Stahl calls on the European Union to define a new strategy vis-à-vis China, taking into account the complexity of relations and the geopolitical issues at stake. He stresses the need to defend effective multilateralism and the role of the United Nations in the management of international affairs. The author invites the EU to favour constructive dialogue with China, avoiding a confrontational approach and promoting cooperation on global challenges such as climate change. He stresses that the EU’s values, such as human dignity, peace and democracy, must guide its foreign policy.
A call for international cooperation
In conclusion, ‘China: Dangerous Rival or Cooperative Partner?’ is an invitation to reflection and action. The author calls for greater international cooperation to tackle global challenges such as climate change and underdevelopment. He warns against simplifications and ‘narrative traps’, and calls for a pragmatic and balanced approach to EU-China relations. The book makes a valuable contribution to the debate on the future of Sino-European relations, offering rigorous analysis and pertinent recommendations.
Gerhard Stahl’s book is an essential tool for anyone intending to understand the issues surrounding China and contribute to building a more balanced and cooperative world.