Knowledge Gaps

For decades, the notion of GDP has taken on symbolic significance for the Chinese Communist Party. But the prominence of the measure may be faltering in the face of the country's changing economic and political climate.

There are growing calls for more expertise about China in Europe. But what would this expertise look like? We spoke with former Swedish ambassador to China Lars Peter Fredén about his preliminary idea for an "EU China School." 

For many universities in Ireland and elsewhere in Europe, engagement with Chinese institutions can represent an immense opportunity. But what are the hidden costs to the core values of higher education in Europe?

Through the strength of its economic growth figures year after year, China has projected an image of fundamental economic strength. But a closer look at the numbers exposes profound structural issues that should help cool down fear and envy in the West.  

After four decades of legal reforms in China, "rule of law" has become a term commonly used in dialogues between European and Chinese counterparts. But if we omit the subject and object of the term this creates confusion. For any legal system, the most basic question should be: Who is rule of law meant to serve?  

Can we really discuss the factors behind France’s “Yellow Vest” movement and other European upheavals without addressing the role of China in a globalized world?

How has the Chinese notion of a “community of common destiny for humankind” been received in France? The short answer is that is hasn’t been. But the language isn’t exactly unfamiliar either.

China actively promotes the idea that the world is a “community of common destiny,” and that China’s values can be shared by all. Now formally a partner in China’s Belt and Road Initiative, Italy should have a more open discussion about what exactly those values are. 

China’s language about the building of a “community of destiny” hasn’t gained much ground in Sweden. But it will have to compete for space with the Swedish-Finnish brotherhood.