Blog
China Power
China's rise inspires a mix of awe, fear and skepticism. But what will its global role be? Are we on the brink of a bipolar world? How will its neighbors respond? Will it all come crashing down? The Diplomat's daily China blog will try to find some answers.
Hong Kong and the National Security Law: Why Now?
By Simon Shen
The realist calculations behind Beijing’s so-called “second reunification” with Hong Kong.
Hong Kong Protest Marks Anniversary of Violent Police Clash
By Associated Press
As a new national security law looms, protesters gathered to mark a key moment in 2019's anti-extradition bill protests.
China’s (Potentially) Revealing Government Work Report
By Shin Kawashima
Does the report reveal disagreements within the Chinese government?
What to Make of China’s Debt Relief Announcement
By Eleanor Albert
China is instituting the G-20's temporary debt suspension, but how will Beijing reframe the debt narrative in the long term?
Zoom Caught in China Censorship Crossfire
By Associated Press
“It is not in Zoom's power to change the laws of government opposed to free speech,” the company said.
Taiwan’s ‘Han Wave’ Comes Crashing Down
By Nick Aspinwall
Han Kuo-yu will be removed from his post after infuriating Kaohsiung residents during his brief tenure as mayor.
China’s Disinformation Campaign in Italy
By Valbona Zeneli and Federica Santoro
China’s increased influence has come along with new efforts to prompt Beijing’s preferred narrative -- on COVID-19 and otherwise.
China Plays Defense in COVID-19 PR Battle With New Report
By Associated Press
The report, which ran to 84 pages in the English version, lauded China’s “decisive victory” over the new coronavirus.
China Isn’t Losing Europe Yet
By Michito Tsuruoka
Despite Beijing’s series of missteps, the real battle for influence has barely begun.
A Reminder of the Chinese Contribution on D-Day
By Bonnie Girard
Huang Tingxin was given the French Legion of Honor for his service during the Allied campaign.
UK Offers Hong Kongers a Potential Exit Strategy
By Eleanor Albert
The U.K., along with Taiwan and the U.S., is discussing making it easier for Hong Kongers to migrate ahead of a looming national security law.
Focus Shifts to Hong Kong’s Fate on Tiananmen Anniversary
By Associated Press
In a sign of Hong Kong’s shrinking freedoms, the annual Tiananmen vigil was not authorized for the first time in 30 years.