China is the world's largest carbon emitter. Emissions per capita in the People's Republic are now at a similar level to those in Germany. Climate protection is important to Xi Jinping, also as a prerequisite for the CCPs claim to power, explains Merics researcher Nis Gruenberg. But in the short term, other goals rank even higher on Beijing's agenda. The interview was conducted by Nico Beckert.
By Nico Beckert
China’s zero-Covid policy is criticized due to its unsustainability in maintaining normal social activities and the damage it causes to economic growth. However, at this point, the government faces a real dilemma regarding whether to relax Covid restrictions. The low vaccination rate among the elderly population plus an insufficient level of medical treatment capacity could translate into disastrous death rates if dropping the current covid measures. Therefore, it is highly improbable that existing covid restrictions will be removed in the short term.
By Experts Table.Briefings
China's stance in the Ukraine war is a source of much discussion: Beijing calls itself neutral, while critics speak of "pro-Russian neutrality" at best. But a closer look reveals how China attempts to take the "middle" ground.
By Experts Table.Briefings
Employees of the Chinese consulate violently ended a protest in Manchester by punching and kicking marchers. Activists and British politicians were outraged and demanded severe consequences. They warn that China's assertiveness is growing. The country would be encouraged to use brutal methods in the future, even abroad, to quell criticism of the Communist Party's policy. The arms of the Chinese security forces already reach far into democratic countries – including Germany.
By Marcel Grzanna