The Diplomat | Author
Dan Macklin
Dan Macklin is a political analyst and risk consultant, based between Beijing and Shanghai. He writes about Chinese politics and political economy.
Dan was previously a graduate researcher at the Oxford University China Centre, where his research focused on the role of propaganda in contemporary Chinese governance. At undergraduate level, he studied Chinese language and history at the University of Cambridge and Peking University.
You can find Dan on Twitter @thatdanmacklin or visit his personal blog.
October 05, 2023
China’s Minister Purges Reflect Xi’s Personnel Dilemma
By Dan Macklin
The removal of two key ministers highlights a deficiency of suitable talent, unsatisfactory performances, and internal divisions.
August 22, 2023
Why China Isn’t Pulling the Stimulus Trigger
By Dan Macklin
Political fundamentals limit Beijing’s resolve to rescue its ailing economy.
May 20, 2023
Decoding China’s Counter-Espionage Crackdown
By Dan Macklin
The recent series of raids and arrests signals an expanded national security drive during Xi Jinping’s third term.
April 17, 2023
Beijing’s Bid to Overhaul China’s Tech-Finance Nexus
By Dan Macklin
Will reforms and crackdowns help to advance China’s core technology capabilities?
March 14, 2023
Li Qiang: Does a New Premier Matter in Xi’s China?
By Dan Macklin
While the powers of the premier have subsided, Li Qiang’s importance may lie in his ability to be a moderating force.
February 28, 2023
Li Keqiang’s Legacy: A Recommitment to Reformism
By Dan Macklin
Despite his reputation for being a political weakling, Li deserves credit for successfully championing reformist economic values.
February 09, 2023
Where Is China’s Politics Headed in 2023?
By Dan Macklin
Beijing continues to face significant uncertainties at home and abroad, as the recent “Balloon-gate” saga demonstrates.
December 13, 2022
Has Xi Averted a ‘Winter of Discontent’ in China?
By Dan Macklin
Ending “zero COVID” is Beijing’s best option, but it comes at the worst possible time.
November 03, 2022
The Ideological Shift Behind Xi’s Clean Sweep
By Dan Macklin
A multi-year effort has brought strongman rule back into the Communist Party liturgy.
October 12, 2022
China’s 20th Party Congress: A Downside Scenario
By Dan Macklin
If political turnover norms are abandoned, Xi could surround himself with compliant officials, raising the risk of policy missteps.
October 04, 2022
China’s 20th Party Congress: An Upside Scenario
By Dan Macklin
Turnover norms for Beijing’s top governing body could check Xi’s power and boost pro-market reformers.
September 17, 2022
Mounting Problems Threaten to Dampen Xi’s Congress Victory
By Dan Macklin
China’s leader faces a litany of domestic and international challenges that are creating a gloomy backdrop to his anticipated reselection.
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