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China’s growing power has shown a worrying trend: it often supports authoritarian regimes and goes against democratic values. This trend, based on China’s own political system and strategic interests, challenges the global spread of democracy and human rights. According to a recent report, China’s influence efforts are expanding, but they often fail due to clumsy tactics and backlashes.

China’s own way of governing is a one-party system with limited political freedoms, focusing on social stability and economic growth. This system, known as the “China Model,” is very different from liberal democracy, which values individual rights, freedom of speech, and political diversity. China’s leaders see promoting democracy as a threat to their power. They worry that democratic ideas inspire opposition within China and weaken the Communist Party’s legitimacy.

China’s Dislike for Democracy

China’s dislike for democracy shows in various ways. It consistently supports authoritarian regimes worldwide, offering them diplomatic support, economic aid, and military assistance. This help often comes with no conditions, allowing these regimes to continue their oppressive practices. Recent examples include China’s relationships with North Korea, Myanmar, and Belarus.

In North Korea, China provides vital economic and diplomatic support despite its poor human rights record and nuclear ambitions. In Myanmar, China has protected the military junta from international pressure, enabling its brutal crackdown on pro-democracy protesters. Similarly, China has supported Belarus’s leader, Alexander Lukashenko, who has violently suppressed dissent and rigged elections to stay in power.

Implications of China’s Actions

China’s actions have significant implications beyond just the challenges to democracy. They contribute to a global decline in freedom and human rights. Potential global responses include coordinated actions by democratic nations to counter China’s influence. For example, the Group of Seven (G7) leading economies have taken steps to counter China’s economic coercion. The U.S. National Defense Authorization Act established a Countering Economic Coercion Task Force to discuss responses to Chinese economic pressure with allies and partners.

Recent Examples and Global Responses

China’s influence efforts are expanding, but they often fail due to clumsy tactics and backlashes. For instance, China’s attempts to interfere in democratic elections in Taiwan and Hong Kong have been met with resistance. The global movement against China’s economic coercion is accelerating, with the G7 leading economies uniting to denounce China’s actions.

In conclusion, China’s growing power and its support for authoritarian regimes pose a serious challenge to the international community. Coordinated responses by democratic nations are essential to protect democratic values and promote a fairer world order.