How China Wants to Change the World Order

China is progressively endeavoring to redefine the international order that has been under the influence of the United States and its allies since the conclusion of World War II. Through its economic power, military advancements, and global diplomatic efforts, Beijing is indicating that it aspires to transition from being a subordinate participant in the current system to becoming a principal architect of a new framework.

China's most prominent initiative aimed at altering global power dynamics is the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which was introduced in 2013. This trillion-dollar initiative has funded the development of railways, ports, highways, and digital infrastructure across Asia, Africa, Europe, and Latin America. Analysts suggest that the BRI not only establishes trade connections but also provides political leverage, as the countries receiving aid often find themselves significantly indebted to Beijing.

In addition to the BRI, China is advocating for the establishment of its own financial institutions, such as the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), which serves as a competitor to the World Bank, and the New Development Bank (NDB), which was formed in collaboration with the BRICS nations. These initiatives aim to diminish reliance on financial systems led by the West.

Furthermore, China is actively promoting the use of the yuan (renminbi) in international trade, especially in oil and gas dealings with Russia, the Middle East, and Africa. This effort is perceived as part of a long-term strategy to contest the supremacy of the U.S. dollar.

Beijing has articulated its vision of a "multipolar world" through initiatives such as the Global Security Initiative (GSI), Global Development Initiative (GDI), and Global Civilization Initiative (GCI). These initiatives prioritize sovereignty, economic collaboration, and cultural appreciation, often resonating with developing countries that perceive themselves as sidelined by Western powers.

China has increased its influence in Africa and Latin America by providing loans, infrastructure development, and medical assistance. In the Middle East, it has established itself as a mediator, notably facilitating a rapprochement between Saudi Arabia and Iran in 2023, an event that was previously deemed impossible without U.S. involvement.

Culturally, Beijing is leveraging Confucius Institutes, expanding its media presence, and utilizing digital platforms to promote Chinese values and narratives internationally, frequently countering Western critiques of its governance and human rights practices.

Military Modernization and Security Reach: The People’s Liberation Army (PLA) of China has experienced the most rapid modernization in decades. With sophisticated naval fleets, hypersonic weaponry, cyber capabilities, and advancements in space technology, China is positioning itself as a near-peer competitor to the United States.

The South China Sea has emerged as a contentious area, where China has constructed artificial islands and military installations to assert its territorial claims. Beyond Asia, Beijing has established its first overseas military base in Djibouti and is reportedly in discussions to gain access to ports in the Indian Ocean, Africa, and South America.

These actions indicate China’s intention to secure global trade routes and extend its military presence well beyond its national borders.

China is also striving to establish global standards in emerging technologies. Through enterprises such as Huawei, BYD, TikTok, and Alibaba, it is competing in sectors like 5G, electric vehicles, artificial intelligence, and e-commerce. By exporting digital infrastructure, Beijing is developing what experts refer to as a “Digital Silk Road.”

In addition, China is exporting digital governance frameworks, which include surveillance systems and cyber regulations, raising concerns among critics who warn that this could normalize authoritarian practices on a global scale.

Despite its increasing influence, China encounters considerable challenges. Numerous Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) projects have faced criticism for creating “debt traps,” leading to protests in nations such as Sri Lanka, Kenya, and Pakistan. Furthermore, its relationship with Russia, particularly in the aftermath of the Ukraine conflict, has raised alarms regarding Beijing’s readiness to align with other authoritarian regimes.

In response, the U.S. and its allies have implemented counter-strategies: >The Quad (comprising the U.S., Japan, India, and Australia) is enhancing regional collaboration. >The AUKUS agreement (involving the U.S., U.K., and Australia) is strengthening security in the Indo-Pacific region. >The G7’s “Partnership for Global Infrastructure” presents alternatives to the BRI.

At the same time, tensions surrounding Taiwan, human rights concerns in Xinjiang and Hong Kong, and trade disputes with the U.S. underscore the discord between China’s ambitions and Western priorities.

President Xi Jinping has consistently advocated for the creation of a “community with a shared future for mankind,” yet critics contend that this is merely a diplomatic guise for the expansion of Chinese influence. Nevertheless, for numerous developing countries, Beijing’s investments and diplomatic initiatives offer opportunities that Western powers have frequently overlooked.

What emerges is a pivotal contest of the 21st century: Will China succeed in transforming the world order into a multipolar system, or will the U.S. and its allies retain their dominance? The result will likely influence global politics, trade, and security for many years to come.